Page 286 - Effective group discussion theory and practice by Adams, Katherine H. Brilhart, John K. Galanes, Gloria J

Problem Solving and Decision Making in Groups 269

2. The group becomes closed-minded.
Either a high-status leader or the group has a preferred solution, and the
group closes itself off to any information contrary to this preference. This
sounds like the registrar staff proposing its “solution” for drop-adds. A group
may also stereotype outside figures who disagree so that it doesn’t have to pay
attention to what they might have to say. The MLB umpires signed their letters
of resignation without having talked to lawyers or even family members.
Reportedly, their leader pounded the table three times, calling for them to sign
their letters. The umpires commonly referred to MLB officials as the “enemy.”
19
3. Group members experience pressures to conform.
Pressure to conform manifests itself in a variety of ways. First, members censor
their own remarks, exemplified in Figure 10.1. If you think everyone else in the
group favors a proposal, you will tend to suppress your own doubts and fears.

FIGURE 10.1 Groupthink in action

I agree with what we decided. We’ve made a good decision here.
(. . . but I have serious (. . . but we really didn’t think it
reservations.) through completely.)
Yes, I like that plan.
(. . . I really don’t, Great plan! Good work, everyone!
but everybody else (. . . not really, but I’m (. . . but it’s not going to
does so I’m going ready to get out succeed.)
along.) of here.)

©Illin Denis/Shutterstock

gal37018_ch10_259_290.indd 269 3/30/18 11:14 AM