What is defined as a psychological phenomenon where harmony in a decision-making group leads to dysfunctional decision-making?

The correct response describes "groupthink," which is a psychological phenomenon characterized by a situation in which a cohesive decision-making group prioritizes consensus and harmony over critical analysis and independent thinking. In groupthink, members may suppress dissenting viewpoints, leading to poor decision-making outcomes, as they avoid conflicts to maintain group unity. This can result in a distorted view of reality, where risks are overlooked, alternative solutions are not explored, and the overall quality of the decision is compromised.

Understanding groupthink is vital in contexts such as organizational behavior and team dynamics, where ensuring diverse perspectives can lead to better outcomes. The concept is often illustrated through historical examples where groups made significant errors due to the desire for cohesion over thorough debate.

The other options represent different psychological or behavioral concepts. For instance, group polarization refers to the phenomenon where group discussion enhances the prevailing tendencies among the group, leading to more extreme positions. Social loafing describes the tendency for individuals to put in less effort when working in a group compared to when they work alone, while cognitive dissonance refers to the mental discomfort experienced when holding conflicting beliefs or attitudes. These concepts highlight various group behaviors but do not capture the essence of dysfunctional decision-making caused by a focus on harmony as groupthink does.