The characteristics of groupthink include the following, EXCEPT –

Correct option is D

Groupthink, a term coined by Irving Janis (1972), refers to a psychological phenomenon where group members prioritize harmony and consensus over critical thinking, leading to poor decision-making.
Characteristics of Groupthink (Correct Choices)
Invulnerability (Option 1)
Members feel overconfident and take excessive risks, believing their decisions are flawless.
Self-Deception (Option 2)
The group rationalizes its decisions, ignoring warning signs and alternative viewpoints.
Lack of Disagreement (Option 3)
Pressure for conformity suppresses dissent, leading to unanimous but flawed decisions.

Since "lack of self-control" is not a characteristic of groupthink, the correct answer is Option 4.

Information Booster:
Groupthink often occurs in high-pressure decision-making groups, such as government, corporate boards, and military strategy teams.

Symptoms of Groupthink (Janis, 1972):
-Illusion of invulnerability (overconfidence)
-Collective rationalization (ignoring warnings)
-Belief in inherent morality (assuming moral superiority)
-Stereotyping outsiders (viewing opponents as weak)
-Self-censorship (suppressing dissent)
-Illusion of unanimity (false agreement)
-Direct pressure on dissenters
-Mindguards (protecting leaders from opposing views)

How to Prevent Groupthink:
-Encourage open discussion and dissenting opinions.
-Use Devil’s Advocate role to challenge ideas.
-Allow independent external evaluations.
-Leaders should remain impartial.