Group polarization is the strengthening of an original group attitude following the discussion of views within a group (Teger & Pruitt, 1967). That is, if a group initially favors a viewpoint, after discussion the group consensus is likely a stronger endorsement of the viewpoint. Conversely, if the group was initially opposed to a viewpoint, group discussion would likely lead to stronger opposition.
The phenomenon of group polarization explains many actions taken by groups that would not be undertaken by individuals. Group polarization can be observed at political conventions, when platforms of the party are supported by individuals who, when not in a group, would decline to support them. A more everyday example is a group’s discussion of how attractive someone is. Does your opinion change if you find someone attractive, but your friends do not agree? If your friends vociferously agree, might you then find this person even more attractive?
This text is adapted from OpenStax, Psychology. OpenStax CNX.
When people socially interact in like-minded groups, their pre-existing beliefs and attitudes may be intensified.
For instance, in a student environmental club meeting, the members share their opinions. After the conversation, everyone walks away with reinforced views supporting their initial opinions, which unites the kindred spirits.
This phenomenon—called group polarization—occurs when deliberating group members align towards an extreme end in the same direction that they were already inclined.
With a rise in social media sites, people can more easily isolate themselves from alternative perspectives into a network of extremism. As the person gets deeper and deeper into the dark web, their ideas become amplified within the group, and more violent messages can result.
In the end, the power of like-minded networks can be harnessed for good and evil.
