Which one of the following is not a pitfall in decision making?

Consensus seeking, the option identified as not a pitfall in decision making, refers to the process of striving for agreement among team members. While seeking consensus is a valuable approach as it encourages collaboration and inclusivity, it is not inherently a pitfall. It can lead to well-rounded decisions when done properly, ensuring that various perspectives are considered before reaching a conclusion.

In contrast, the other options—anchoring, the status quo, and justifying past actions—are recognized pitfalls. Anchoring can lead individuals to rely too heavily on the first piece of information encountered, which may skew subsequent decisions. The status quo often encourages a preference for existing conditions, sometimes at the expense of better alternatives. Justifying past actions can create a bias where decision-makers feel compelled to defend previous choices rather than objectively evaluating new information.

By understanding the role of consensus seeking as a mechanism to enhance decision-making rather than hinder it, one gains insight into effective collective decision processes.