1. Defective Decision Making & Problem Solving Small Group Communication

2. Critical Thinking Evaluate Ideas Analyze Information Sound Judgment CT vital for Decision Making & Problem Solving

3. Decision Making vs. Problem Solving Interconnected Choice between two or more alternatives Not all Decision Making involves a problem to be solved Requires Decision Making Groups make Decisions in process of finding solutions to problems

4. Groupthink: Defective Decision Making (Janis) Occurs in highly cohesive in-groups Members strive for agreement at all costs Illusion of Agreement Can result in faulty decision making

5. Symptoms of Groupthink: (8) Overconfident Illusion of Invulnerability Inherent Morality – Unquestioned Belief of Rightness Tunnel Vision (AKA Close Mindedness) Collective Rationalization Discount Warnings or Negative Information Negative Stereotypes of out- group (us vs. them) Uniformity Pressure to maintain Uniformity of Opinion & behavior of Group Direct & Indirect Self-Censorship Assume Consensus exists in group – illusion of unanimity Direct Pressure Self-Appointed Mindgaurds – information control

6. Preventing Groupthink: Recognize groupthink Minimize status differences Seek information that challenges emerging agreement Assign Devil’s Advocate Develop Norms that legitimizes disagreement