What is the primary characteristic of groupthink?

The primary characteristic of groupthink is the strive for consensus without considering alternative viewpoints. This phenomenon occurs when the desire for harmony and conformity in a group leads to dysfunctional decision-making processes. Members prioritize collective agreement over critical analysis and individual opinions, often suppressing dissenting ideas or failing to explore different perspectives.

In situations where groupthink is present, individuals may feel pressured to align with the predominant viewpoint, which can result in a lack of creativity, unrealistic assessments of risks, and ultimately poor decisions. It is important to recognize that while reaching consensus can be beneficial, it should not be achieved at the expense of evaluating a range of options or viewpoints.