Hidden in plain sight: Abusive leaders and group blind spots

Much of the research on silence as a response to group-level abuse suggests that group members, despite collectively recognizing the leader's abuse, choose to remain silent and accept the abuse due to fear of retaliation. However, there is also growing evidence that groups can be vulnerable to the development of blind spots that distort or entirely preclude any recognition of the leader's misdeeds. In this paper, we draw upon existing theory and research to present a conceptual framework that outlines the group characteristics and dynamics leading such blind spots—impediments that prevent the accurate recognition or appraisal of group psychological abuse committed by a leader. The aim is to explain why groups may unwittingly tolerate abusive leaders, and to provide insights into the complexities of group dynamics and leader influence.