Assignment Overview
In history, you learned that some decisions made by leaders in a group situation were not always the
right or morally correct decisions. Some examples include the atrocities of the Nazis ‘s, slavery,
segregation, Watergate, cults, and gangs, along with many others. How could such decisions have
been made, especially within a group setting? While none of these decisions were acceptable or
condoned, the concept of " Groupthink" helps us understand such mentality. This assignment will
assist you in gaining insight into a " Groupthink" mentality.
In this assignment, you will describe a situation in which you were involved in a group decision-
making process.
Assignment Details
Perform the following tasks:
 Complete the reading assignment and the interactive lecture before attempting this
assignment.
 Review the table below and answer the questions.
Characteristics of Groupthink
Characteristics Description
Invulnerability Members feel they cannot fail.
Rationalization Members explain away warning signs and help each other

rationalize their decision.

Lack of
introspection

Members do not examine the ethical implications of their decision
because they believe that they cannot make immoral choices.
Stereotyping Members stereotype their enemies as weak, stupid, or

unreasonable.

Pressure Members pressure each other not to question the prevailing opinion.
Lack of
disagreement

Members do not express opinions that differ from the group
consensus.

Self-deception Members share the illusion that they all agree with the decision.
Insularity Members prevent the group from hearing disruptive but potentially
useful information from people who are outside the group.

 Your responses (approximately 250 words) must have correct spelling and grammar.
 Check your assignment against unintended plagiarism.
 Include the proper file naming convention: PSY101H_wk9_assn_jsmith_mmddyyyy.

PSY101: Assignment 9Page 2
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Grading:
Gradable items in assignment Points
Described participation in a group decision that was not effective. 25
Describe the result of the problem to be solved. 25
Described characteristics of groupthink. 25
Applied the expectations in the Written Assignment Rubric 25
Total Points 100

Assignment Worksheet
Respond to the following prompts:
1. Groupthink does not lead to good decisions. Describe a time when you participated in a group
decision that was not effective. The situation can involve family, work, or a social group.
Your answer:

2. Was the problem easily solved, difficult to solve, or not solved at all?
Your answer:

3. What characteristics of groupthink were involved?
Your answer: