Final answer:
The statement that excessive cohesion contributing to groupthink is positive is false. Groupthink compromises critical thinking and can lead to poor decision-making, as it often suppresses dissent and encourages conformity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement, 'Excessive cohesion can contribute to groupthink, which is generally positive.' is FALSE. Groupthink is a phenomenon where the desire for group consensus overrides people's common sense desire to present alternatives, critique a position, or express an unpopular opinion. This can lead to poor decision-making and a lack of creativity. In essence, groupthink can often result in negative outcomes because it hinders critical thinking and encourages conformity.
One key aspect of groupthink is that it occurs in groups where there is a strong desire for harmony or conformity. This is often seen when a group is highly cohesive, which might seem positive on the surface, but can actually lead to dysfunctional outcomes. Moreover, groupthink is more likely when decision-making processes are not democratic, and diverse viewpoints are not welcomed or actively suppressed, leading to poor decisions.