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Research Article

The effects of mental model formation on group decision making: An agent-based simulation

  1. Hiroki Sayama1,*,
  2. Dene L. Farrell1,
  3. Shelley D. Dionne2

Article first published online: 24 JUN 2010

DOI: 10.1002/cplx.20329

Issue

Complexity

Complexity

Volume 16, Issue 3, pages 49–57, January/February 2011

Additional Information

How to Cite

Sayama, H., Farrell, D. L. and Dionne, S. D. (2011), The effects of mental model formation on group decision making: An agent-based simulation. Complexity, 16: 49–57. doi: 10.1002/cplx.20329

Author Information

  1. 1

    Collective Dynamics of Complex Systems Research Group, Department of Bioengineering, Binghamton University, State University of New York, Binghamton, New York 13902-6000

  2. 2

    Center for Leadership Studies, School of Management, Binghamton University, State University of New York, Binghamton, New York 13902-6000

*Collective Dynamics of Complex Systems Research Group, Department of Bioengineering, Binghamton University, State University of New York P.O. Box 6000, Binghamton, NY 13902-6000

Publication History

  1. Issue published online: 27 JAN 2011
  2. Article first published online: 24 JUN 2010
  3. Manuscript Accepted: 10 MAY 2010
  4. Manuscript Revised: 4 MAY 2010
  5. Manuscript Received: 23 FEB 2010

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Keywords:

  • group decision making;
  • information sharing;
  • mental model formation;
  • complex problem space;
  • agent-based simulation

Abstract

We investigated dynamics of group decision making on complex problems when agents can form mental models of others from discussion history. Results indicated that as the agents' memory capacity increases, the group reaches superficial consensus more easily. Surprisingly, however, the shared mental model of the problem develops only within a limited area of the problem space, because incorporating knowledge from others into one's own knowledge quickly creates local agreement on where relevant solutions are, leaving other potentially useful solutions beyond the scope of discussion. The mechanisms stifling group-level exploration and their implications for decision making research are discussed. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 16: 49–57, 2011

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