As social beings, we gain many benefits from being part of a group, whether it’s a family, community, team, or even a broader society. But sometimes, group dynamics can become overly controlling or rigid in beliefs, leading to a phenomenon known as “groupthink.”
Groupthink occurs when the desire for conformity within a group leads to irrational or poor decision-making. Members prioritize consensus over critical thinking, often suppressing dissent or overlooking risks to avoid conflict. This is particularly common in close-knit groups with strong leaders or rigid beliefs, where members may agree outwardly while privately feeling misaligned.
Groups affected by groupthink often resist new ideas or evidence, leading to flawed decisions, stunted growth, and added burdens on certain members—often those who are already marginalized. Psychologist Kelly-Ann Allen has observed that, in order to feel accepted, people often censor their speech and even thoughts, sacrificing authenticity and factual accuracy. This self-censorship shows the lengths people will go to avoid being seen as an outcast. Yet, belonging by compromising one’s authenticity might serve a social purpose but takes away from life’s richness and personal fulfillment.
True belonging requires first connecting deeply with oneself. When we embrace our whole selves, including both our strengths and vulnerabilities, we can engage with others authentically. Only then can we contribute meaningfully to a group without losing ourselves in the process.
Notes
Allen, K. (2021). The psychology of belonging (pp. 23-24). Routledge.
It's true.
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