Various factors contribute to group polarization.
This can be a difficult and even stressful experience for some people.
This can reduce conflict and distress, but it can further deepen polarization.
Klaus Vedfelt / Getty Images
This article explores why group polarization happens, real-world examples, and how to minimize its effects.
How Does Group Polarization Happen?
Group polarization involves a phenomenon known as a choice shift.
Choice shift means that after group interaction, the mean attitude of the group changes from the initial attitude.
Group polarization happens when this choice shift involves anintensificationof that initial attitude.
While these two terms are related, they are distinct concepts.
Group polarization always involves a choice shift, but a choice shift can occur without group polarization.
This theory focuses on the role of social relationships in communicating information that leads to behavior and attitude changes.
Adopting the views of the rest of group helps people feel more positively about themselves.
Persuasive Arguments
Group members naturally interact and discuss what matters to them individually and collectively.
These interactions lead people to encounterpersuasive argumentsthat can help reinforce their current beliefs.
Informational Influence
Interactions within the group also contribute to the transmission of information.
As a result, people are exposed to arguments and ideas that they would otherwise not encounter.
Diffusion of Responsibility
A social phenomenon known asdiffusion of responsibilitycan also contribute to group polarization.
What Are Examples of Group Polarization?
Group polarization can be seen in a variety of real-world parameters.
Online Communities
In online communities, people often engage with others who share similar interests and beliefs.
“If there is strong segregation by attitudes, then there is no opportunity to hear alternative views.
However, Crandall notes that this isn’t necessarily a problem if people still seek other perspectives.
The lack of opposing viewpoints can then contribute to moving the groups overall opinion further into the margins.
Extremist Groups or Cults
Extremist groups and cults can provide an avenue for group polarization to grow.
This leads to the reinforcement of extreme ideas and identification with the group’s positions.
This polarization leads to increased partisanship and more extreme policy positions.
When people are only exposed to one perspective, they become increasingly entrenched in their positions.
So what are some signs you might look for to help you recognize group polarization?
Sometimes, you might spot many of these signs.
Crandall explains that polarization seems very normal.
Like-minded people who discuss their ideas emerge from such interactions feeling very confident in their positions.
Will you notice it?
Probably not, Crandall explains.
While the two both involve processes that influence the group, there are important distinctions.
It can increase conflicts, risky decision-making, and more extreme beliefs.
Despite that, it isnt always a bad thing.
While it can be challenging to avoid, some strategies can help minimize the negative impacts of this phenomenon.
Encourage Critical Thinking
In group prefs, encourage people to use critical thinking skills.
Embrace Diverse Opinions
It is important to intentionally seek out differing perspectives and points of view.
This can involve talking to people from other backgrounds and inviting diverse viewpoints to contribute to discussions.
Expose yourself to opposing viewpoints.
Maintain your friendships with people who disagree with you.
Watch both FoxNews and MSNBC, at least a little.
Engage with others on social media (but do it respectfully, of course).
Foster Empathy
It can be helpful to encourage active listening and empathy.
Fakorzi notes that polarization tends to intensify conflicts by reducing the acceptance of alternative ideas.
“Listening with the goal of understanding is a mark of healthy and productive communication.
Respecting others and allowing them to be without judgment is essential to the practice of tolerance.”
The key is not to lose touch with people different from yourself.
Fakorzi also suggests that maintaining connections with people from other walks of life is essential.
Friedkin NE, Johnsen EC.Choice shift and group polarization.
In:Social Influence web connection Theory: A Sociological Examination of Small Group Dynamics.
Structural Analysis in the Social Sciences.
Published online September 19, 2021:146144482110443. doi:10.1177/14614448211044393
