Question

Read the scenario below and answer the question that follows.

Ralph is part of a group of amateur jugglers. The group is successful and is in its eighth year of existence. One day, a new juggler joins and proposes a new method of juggling. The new method is clearly superior to the old method Ralph’s group favors, but it would require all the members to relearn many techniques.

Based on the concept of groupthink, what is the most likely response of Ralph’s group to the new member’s proposal?

A.
Ralph and his group will quickly adopt the new method.
B.
Ralph and his group will quickly reject the old method.
C.
Ralph and his group will have long discussions with the new member.
D.
Ralph and his group will ask for more evidence to support the new method.

Answer 1

D.

Groupthink leads groups to preserve consensus and resist change. Rather than thoroughly debate or adopt a disruptive innovation, the group is more likely to stall or demand extra proof as a way to avoid upsetting the established methods.