What is the main function of mindguarding in group settings?

Mindguarding refers to a phenomenon within group dynamics where certain individuals or subgroups work to protect the group from dissenting opinions or contradictory information that might challenge the group’s existing beliefs and consensus. This behavior often serves to maintain cohesion and a favorable narrative within the group while minimizing internal conflict.

The main function of mindguarding is to filter out dissenting opinions and uphold group beliefs, which can enhance group solidarity at the expense of critical thinking and broader perspectives. When mindguarding occurs, group members may feel discouraged from voicing alternative viewpoints, leading to a lack of comprehensive discussion and decision-making that takes into account diverse opinions and data.

Understanding this concept is crucial, as it highlights the psychological mechanisms that can underpin groupthink, where the desire for harmony in a decision-making group results in an irrational or dysfunctional decision-making outcome.