Groupthink

Groupthink: Critical thinking

Write a short paper (1 - 2 pages) illustrating the concept of Groupthink, and include at least three (3) famous historical examples of Groupthink that fit within the definition provided in the PowerPoint. As a convenience, references regarding this concept are provided below.

In preparation for this assignment, review the PowerPoint on Groupthink (see attachment provided under Supporting Materials below). Your paper must have an introduction, body, and conclusion. Your paper must include a reference page, title page, and in-text citations for all listed references in accordance with the APA manual, 6th edition chapters 6 (citation formatting) and chapter 7 (reference/source formatting). In addition, papers longer than 2 pages will not be read after the second page. As such, please ensure that all questions are answered within the first two pages, as your grade will be based on the first two pages received.

Please support your ideas, arguments, and opinions with independent research, and include at least three (3) supporting references or sources (do NOT use Wikipedia, unknown, undated, or anonymous sources, such as websites).

Assignment Questions: 

Respond to the following question(s):

1. How do these sources define Groupthink?
2. What historical events do these sources use to illustrate this phenomenon (NOTE: identify a minimum of three historical events)? Be specific in providing an explanation as to why these historical events are examples of Groupthink.

Reminder:

Please ensure that you review the grading rubric for this assignment carefully, to ensure that you receive the highest possible grade for your work!

Supplemental References:

Dattner, B. (2011). Preventing groupthink. Retrieved July 10, 2013 from http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/credit-and-blame-work/201104/preventing-groupthink

Mindtools (2013). Avoiding fatal flaws in group decision-making  (Note: You cannot access the full video that accompanies this article without a membership; read the article only).   Retrieved July 10, 2013 from http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newLDR_82.htm

Packer, D. J. (2009). Avoiding groupthink: whereas weakly identified members remain silent, strongly identified members dissent about collective problems. 

Psychological Science, 20(5), 546–548.

Rose, J. D. (Spring 2011). Diverse perspectives on the groupthink theory – a literary review. Emerging Leadership Journeys, 4(1), 37–57.

Supporting Materials (see attached doc)