Discussion can strengthen a shared view
Explore how discussion can strengthen a group’s initial leaning.
The picture in words
- Before
- The group begins with a tendency.
- Discussion
- Members exchange information and arguments.
- After
- The tendency can become more pronounced.
Reading the illustration
The shift is a schematic example of group polarization. Outcomes depend on the group and discussion.
Try a question
What makes this an example of polarization?
Show the explanation
The group’s position becomes a stronger version of its original leaning after discussion.
Read the sources
- Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020). Psychology 2e. OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/12-4-conformity-compliance-and-obedienceSelected rendered passage on group polarization, reviewed in the topic-selection research.