People will often behave differently when working as part of a group vice working individually. Groups are defined as two or more individuals, interacting and interdependent, who have come together to achieve particular objectives (Robbins, 2002, p. 284). Many factors contribute to the degree of success group experiences which include: development, properties, and decision making. Within those categories, several other categories exist and affect a group’s behavior, thus group performance. Groups are formed for a variety of reasons but generally navigate through some process of growth and development that involves creating processes, routines, and norms, and above all getting things done. (Fischer, 2012, slide 2). The way a group is formed is only a small contributing factor to the …show more content…
Groupthink is a phenomenon in which the norm for consensus overrides the realistic appraisal of alternative courses of action (Robbins, 2002, p. 304). The drive for concurrence becomes more important than the thorough and honest evaluation of alternatives; group members view a matter only from one perspective. Those who have doubts or alternative ideas don't propose them. Thus, group think can lead to diminished group performance (Person, 1990, p. 109). The manner in which this phenomenon is usually demonstrated is as subordinates not wanting to go against their superiors in fear potential repercussions. The result has typically been an increased amount of effort for little to no benefit to the organization. Groupthink could be also described as “going with the flow” or “not rocking the boat” due to a myriad of reasons. The bible applauds speaking the truth, “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body” (Ephesians 4:25, NIV), rather than sitting in silence because sitting in silence is the easier