Question

What are the reasons for the occurrence of group polarisation? Give two reasons.

Answer 1

Group polarisation occurs because:

1. In the company of like-minded people, you are likely to hear newer arguments favouring your viewpoints. This will make you more favourable towards capital punishment.
2. When you find others also favouring capital punishment, you feel that this view is validated by the public. This is a sort of bandwagon effect.
3. When you find people having similar views, you are likely to perceive them as an ingroup. You start identifying with the group, begin showing conformity, and as a consequence, your views become strengthened.