Social and Cognitive Influences in Group Brainstorming: Predicting Production Gains and Losses

Abstract

The creation of novel ideas often takes place in social contexts. Past research on brainstorming and other types of group tasks have shown that groups often perform poorly in comparison to conditions in which tasks are done individually. Past reviews have evaluated various factors that may be responsible for the production losses in group brainstorming (Diehl & Stroebe, 1987; Mullen, Johnson, & Salas, 1991; Stroebe & Diehl, 1994). We re-evaluate these factors in light of subsequent research in our laboratory and demonstrate conditions under which groups can perform quite well in comparison to similar groups of individuals (nominal groups). We present a comprehensive model for predicting production gains and losses. Research on cognitive and social factors that may enhance brainstorming in groups is summarized.