Overview & Description:

Group polarization refers to the phenomenon where group discussions lead to decisions and attitudes that are more extreme than the initial inclination of its members. When individuals with similar views gather, their views can become more radical.

Key Points:

1. Riskier Decisions: In some cases, groups might make riskier decisions than any single individual would have made on their own (known as the “risky shift”).
2. Reinforcement: Group discussions often validate individual opinions, leading to more extreme views.
3. Influences: Factors like informational influences (receiving new arguments) and normative influences (desire to fit in) can contribute to group polarization.

Implications:

1. Decision Making: Organizations and institutions need to be wary of group polarization when making critical decisions.
2. Social Media & Echo Chambers: Online platforms can exacerbate group polarization, where individuals are only exposed to views similar to their own.

References:

• Isenberg, D. J. (1986). Group polarization: A critical review and meta-analysis. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 50(6), 1141.