Which of the following statement is correct in relation to 'Groupthin…

The correct answer is Option (2) → There is consensus or unanimous agreement within a group

Option (1) Members are bound by rules and regulations which they have to follow — Incorrect. This describes a formal group, whose functions and rules are explicitly laid down. Groupthink is not about rules; it is about how a group reaches a decision.

Option (2) There is consensus or unanimous agreement within a group — Correct. Irving Janis found that a group’s concern for unanimity can override a realistic look at its choices. Groupthink is characterised by the appearance of consensus or unanimous agreement within a group: each member believes all the others agree, and no one voices a different opinion for fear of breaking the group’s cohesion.

Option (3) Members in a cohesive group feel and act like isolated individuals — Incorrect. It is the reverse: as a group becomes more cohesive, members think, feel and act as a social unit, and less like isolated individuals. Groupthink occurs in such highly cohesive groups.

Option (4) Members feel they can easily join or leave the group — Incorrect. Members of a highly cohesive group have a greater desire to remain in the group. A group that members feel free to leave is a loosely held one, not the close-knit group in which groupthink arises.