'Errors in group decision-making are always due to the cognitive limitations of an individual rather than to being part of a groupthink situation.' To what extent do you agree with this statement? Use examples of research you have studied to support your answer.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (May/June 2020). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. use generic levels of response in table C.
2. Syllabus: Decision-making: cognitive limitations and errors (Forsyth, 2006); groupthink (Janis, 1971) and strategies to avoid groupthink.
3. People are sometimes limited in their understanding; they sometimes make 'sins of commission': belief perseverance, for example
4. People are sometimes poor in socially interacting in groups
5. People sometimes have a particular type of personality less cohesive to group dynamics
6. People will sometimes have 'interpersonal conflict' with other group members
7. Groupthink itself is the result of situational/group rather than individual decision-making
8. Individuals may want to 'impress the boss' and so agree with group decisions rather than questioning them
9. Conflict created by raising questions might harm group cohesiveness.