Social Work Qualifying Practice Exam

Group Polarization results in what?

Group Polarization leads to more moderate positions after group discussion. Group Polarization leads to more extreme positions when the majority determines the direction. Group Polarization has no effect on positions. Group Polarization only occurs in small groups.

Correct Answer:

Group Polarization leads to more extreme positions when the majority determines the direction.

Explanation:

Group polarization is the tendency for a group’s discussion to push members toward more extreme positions in the direction the group already favors. When the majority leans one way, the conversation tends to amplify that stance, moving everyone to a more extreme version of it. This happens because members encounter new arguments that support the group’s view (informational influence) and because they want to align with the group and appear committed (normative influence). It leads to stronger, not more moderate, positions after discussion. Polarization can occur in various group sizes, not just in small groups. Hence, the best description is that more extreme positions emerge when the majority determines the direction.

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