An illusion of invulnerability: Members ignore danger, take extreme risk and are overly optimistic.
Collective rationalization: Members discredit and explain away warning contrary to group thinking.
Belief in inherent morality: Members discredit and explain away warning contrary to group thinking.
Stereotyped views of out-groups: The group constructs negative stereotypes of rivals outside the group.
Direct pressure on dissenters: Members pressure any in the group who expresses arguments against the group’s stereotypes, illusions, or commitments, viewing such opposition as disloyalty.
Self-censorship: Members withhold their dissenting views and counter-arguments.
Illusion of unanimity: Members perceive falsely that everyone agrees with the group’s decision; silence is seen as consent.
“Mind guards” are appointed: Some members appoint themselves to the role of protecting the group from adverse information that might threaten group complacency.