Group Polarization

Definition

Group polarization refers to the phenomenon where members of a group, when discussing a topic as a group, tend to become more extreme in their opinions and attitudes compared to their individual positions before the group discussion. This shift towards more extreme views occurs due to the influence of group dynamics and the desire for social cohesion within the group.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Group polarization can occur in a variety of settings, including political discussions, jury deliberations, and online forums.
2. The more homogeneous the group, the more likely it is to experience group polarization, as members tend to reinforce each other's existing views.
3. Group polarization can lead to increased extremism, decreased empathy, and a reduced willingness to consider alternative perspectives.
4. The desire for social acceptance and the need to maintain a positive social identity within the group are key drivers of group polarization.
5. Exposure to diverse perspectives and the inclusion of dissenting voices can help mitigate the effects of group polarization.

Review Questions

• Explain how group dynamics and the desire for social cohesion contribute to group polarization.
  • Group polarization occurs because members of a group tend to seek social acceptance and a positive social identity within the group. As the group discusses a topic, individuals often shift their positions towards more extreme views in order to align with the perceived norms and attitudes of the group. This desire for conformity and the influence of group dynamics can lead the group as a whole to become more polarized, with members holding more extreme positions compared to their individual views before the group discussion.
• Describe the relationship between group homogeneity and the likelihood of group polarization.
  • The more homogeneous a group is, the more likely it is to experience group polarization. When group members share similar backgrounds, beliefs, and perspectives, they tend to reinforce each other's existing views during discussions. This homogeneity creates an echo chamber effect, where dissenting or alternative viewpoints are less likely to be introduced. As a result, the group's positions become more extreme and polarized over time, as members collectively shift towards more extreme versions of their initial attitudes.
• Evaluate the potential consequences of group polarization in decision-making contexts, such as jury deliberations or political discussions.
  • Group polarization in decision-making contexts can have significant consequences. When a group becomes more polarized, it can lead to increased extremism, decreased empathy, and a reduced willingness to consider alternative perspectives. This can result in suboptimal or even irrational decisions, as the group becomes increasingly insular and resistant to dissenting views. In the context of jury deliberations, group polarization can lead to biased and unjust outcomes, while in political discussions, it can contribute to the escalation of political divisions and the inability to find common ground. Mitigating the effects of group polarization, such as by exposing the group to diverse perspectives and encouraging critical thinking, is crucial for effective and well-informed decision-making.

Related terms

Groupthink:

Groupthink is a psychological phenomenon that occurs when a group of people make irrational or dysfunctional decisions, often due to a desire for conformity and a lack of critical thinking within the group.

Conformity: Conformity is the act of matching attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors to group norms, often driven by a desire for acceptance and social cohesion.

Social Identity Theory:

Social Identity Theory suggests that individuals derive part of their self-concept from the groups they belong to, and this group membership can influence their attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors.