What does 'groupthink' refer to?

'Groupthink' refers to a phenomenon where the desire for harmony and conformity within a group results in irrational or dysfunctional decision-making. When members prioritize consensus and cohesiveness over critical analysis and individual opinions, they often overlook alternative viewpoints and suppress dissent. This can lead to suboptimal choices, as members may not adequately evaluate all potential risks or consider other relevant information. The social pressure to conform can stifle creativity and discourage diverse viewpoints, making it difficult for the group to engage in thorough discussions.

In contrast, the other options suggest positive collaboration and enhancement of decision-making through diversity, which are not characteristics of groupthink. A collaborative approach typically encourages input and debate, while methods to improve group dynamics focus on fostering healthy interactions and diverse contributions rather than suppressing dissenting opinions. Thus, the essence of groupthink lies in its detrimental impact on decision-making processes within groups.