GROUPTHINK Writing Assignment

We've been discussing the dynamics of group decision making, and have concluded that higher levels of individual involvement and investment result in greater personal satisfaction and job performance. Slides are here:

COM 3120 Group Decision Making.ppt

1st paper: Example: U.s. Involvement in Vietnam 

Illusion of Invulnerability

Belief in Inherent Morality of the Group

Collective Rationalization

Out-group Stereotypes

Self-Censorship

Illusion of Unanimity

Direct Pressure on Dissenters

We've watched the documentary A Rush to Launch, which is about the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster, and which outlines how Groupthink resulted in a fateful decision. You've been assigned another example to discuss, as well. 

Describe how the symptoms of Groupthink played a role in your group's assigned example. Use as many of the symptoms as applicable. Consider the symptoms of Groupthink you saw in A Rush to Launch and make direct comparisons. How are the two situations (Challenger and your example) similar?

2nd paper Example: Space Shuttle Video 

Illusion of Invulnerability

Belief in Inherent Morality of the Group

Collective Rationalization

Out-group Stereotypes

Self-Censorship

Illusion of Unanimity

Direct Pressure on Dissenters