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GATE 2024 XH5 (Psychology) – Question 59

Social Psychology · Group Dynamics: Theories of intergroup relations and conflicts · 2 marks · Multiple select

Which of the following is/are characteristic(s) of groupthink?

  1. There is excessive optimism and risk taking.
  2. Silence is interpreted as consent.
  3. Members reduce their efforts and performance levels while acting as a part of the group.
  4. People do not know what they are supposed to be doing.

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Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (A) There is excessive optimism and risk taking.; (B) Silence is interpreted as consent.

Explanation

Janis's symptoms of groupthink include an illusion of invulnerability (excessive optimism and risk taking) and an illusion of unanimity (silence is taken as consent). Reduced effort is social loafing.