What does group polarization refer to?

Group polarization refers to the phenomenon where group discussions lead to enhancement or strengthening of the prevailing attitudes or opinions held by group members. When individuals in a group share their views and engage in discussion, their opinions can become more extreme in the direction they were initially leaning. This occurs because members typically validate each other's perspectives, leading to a more pronounced stance than they might hold individually outside the group context.

This process can occur in various settings, from informal gatherings to formal decision-making bodies, and it highlights the influence of social dynamics on individual thought. For instance, if a group is already leaning towards a particular opinion, discussing their beliefs can create an environment that amplifies that opinion, leading to more extreme positions. This is significant because it helps to explain how groups can make not only unanimous decisions but potentially reach outcomes that are more extreme than what individuals might agree on when alone.