Which concept best describes the phenomenon where individuals become more extreme in their views after discussing those views with like-minded peers?

• A. Social loafing
• B. Groupthink
• C. Group polarization
• D. Deindividuation

Answer: (C)

The concept that best describes the phenomenon where individuals become more extreme in their views after discussing those views with like-minded peers is group polarization. This occurs when members of a group share similar opinions, leading to discussions that reinforce their beliefs and push them towards more extreme positions. As they engage in dialogue, they often amplify their arguments and feelings, resulting in a stronger collective stance on the issue at hand.

Group polarization can be observed in various contexts, such as political discussions, social movements, or even within smaller groups of friends. The dynamics of consensus and validation within the group contribute to the shift, where individuals feel encouraged to express more radical viewpoints as they gain support from others who share their perspectives.

Social loafing refers to a tendency for individuals to exert less effort when working in a group compared to working alone, which is distinct from the idea of opinion extremity. Groupthink describes a scenario where the desire for harmony or conformity in a group results in dysfunctional decision-making, preventing critical evaluation of alternative viewpoints. Deindividuation involves a loss of self-awareness and individual accountability in group settings, which can lead to behaviors that individuals might not exhibit alone, but it is not specifically about the extremity of views. Therefore, group polarization accurately captures the essence of