Group Polarization

Definition

Group polarization is the phenomenon where individuals in a group tend to adopt more extreme positions or opinions after discussing an issue collectively. This occurs because group members often reinforce each other's beliefs, leading to a shift toward more radical viewpoints than those held individually. The dynamics of group discussions, such as social comparison and the desire for group cohesion, play a significant role in driving this intensification of beliefs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Group polarization can lead to more extreme political views, as individuals may feel compelled to align with the dominant opinion in the group, amplifying their original stance.
2. In a discussion setting, if the initial opinions are somewhat favorable toward a particular view, the final consensus will likely be more extreme than any individual's starting point.
3. This phenomenon can occur in various settings, including jury deliberations, online forums, and social movements, demonstrating its broad relevance across contexts.
4. Group polarization is often facilitated by confirmation bias, where group members selectively seek out information that supports their existing beliefs while ignoring contradictory evidence.
5. The presence of strong leaders or influential members can exacerbate group polarization by guiding discussions toward specific agendas and reinforcing extreme viewpoints.

Review Questions

• How does social comparison contribute to group polarization during discussions?
  • Social comparison plays a crucial role in group polarization as individuals assess their opinions against those of others. When discussing a topic, people may adjust their views to align with what they perceive as the dominant opinion within the group. This desire to fit in and be accepted can lead members to adopt more extreme positions, resulting in a consensus that is significantly more radical than what any individual might have supported alone.
• In what ways can cohesiveness within a group lead to more extreme decision-making outcomes?
  • Cohesiveness can significantly influence the dynamics of decision-making in groups. High cohesiveness often fosters an environment where members prioritize agreement over critical evaluation of ideas. As a result, the desire for harmony can lead individuals to suppress dissenting opinions and adopt more extreme viewpoints that align with the group's consensus. This creates an echo chamber effect where divergent thoughts are not only discouraged but can be actively marginalized.
• Evaluate how understanding group polarization can impact strategies for effective decision-making in organizational settings.
  • Understanding group polarization highlights the importance of fostering an environment that encourages diverse viewpoints and critical thinking in organizational decision-making. Leaders should be aware of the potential for discussions to skew towards extreme positions and actively seek to include dissenting opinions and diverse perspectives. Strategies like structured debate or inviting outside experts can mitigate the effects of polarization, leading to more balanced outcomes and better-informed decisions that take into account a wider range of ideas and solutions.

Related terms

Social Comparison: The process by which individuals evaluate their own opinions and abilities by comparing themselves to others in their social group.

Cohesiveness: The degree to which group members are attracted to each other and motivated to stay in the group, which can influence decision-making processes.

Risky Shift Phenomenon: A specific type of group polarization where groups make riskier decisions than individuals would make on their own.