Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Business Management Practice Test

Which of the following factors could lead to groupthink?

1. High levels of group cohesion

2. Low levels of communication

3. Disagreement among members

4. Strict leadership roles

The correct answer is: High levels of group cohesion

High levels of group cohesion can lead to groupthink because when members of a group share strong bonds and a high degree of unity, they may prioritize harmony and consensus over critical evaluation of ideas and alternative viewpoints. This desire to maintain positive group dynamics can result in a reduction of open discussion and critical analysis, as group members may suppress dissenting opinions or alternatives in order to avoid conflict or maintain the group's harmony. Consequently, cohesive groups may overlook potential flaws in their ideas or decisions, leading to less optimal outcomes. In contrast, low levels of communication would typically hinder the free flow of information and could actually prevent groupthink by allowing space for diverse perspectives to emerge. Disagreement among members tends to encourage critical thinking and debate, which works against the phenomenon of groupthink by fostering an environment where diverse opinions are valued. Strict leadership roles can also lead to a more hierarchical approach to decision-making, where dissenting voices might not feel empowered to speak up, but might not necessarily create the same strong desire for consensus as high cohesion does. Thus, while all these factors can influence group dynamics, it is the high levels of cohesion that most directly contribute to the onset of groupthink.