Which of the following describes a disadvantage of groupthink?

The statement that describes a disadvantage of groupthink is that it can lead to insufficient exploration of alternatives. Groupthink occurs when a cohesive group prioritizes harmony and consensus over critical analysis, resulting in a lack of diverse perspectives. This is detrimental because, in striving for agreement, members may overlook important information, fail to consider various alternatives, and ultimately make poor decisions. The pressure to conform can suppress individual opinions, leading to conformity instead of thorough discussion and exploration of all potential solutions.

In contrast, the other statements reflect characteristics that do not align with groupthink's disadvantages. Promoting diverse viewpoints and fostering effective communication are generally positive outcomes associated with healthy group dynamics but are not characteristic of groupthink, where the opposite often occurs. Additionally, while groupthink can create an illusion of safety, it typically discourages risk-taking behavior due to the group's emphasis on consensus rather than open discussion of the risks involved. Therefore, the recognition of insufficient exploration of alternatives is key to understanding the negative impact of groupthink on decision-making processes.