Group Polarization is best described as which of the following?

• A. A tendency for group members to converge on a moderate position after discussion.
• B. Tendency for members to move to a more extreme position when the majority determines the shift.
• C. Groups tend to ignore each other's input when discussing.
• D. Decisions become more cautious but remain the same stance.

Answer: (B)

Group polarization happens when people in a discussion end up adopting more extreme versions of their initial positions. Through talking with others who share similar views and weighing each other’s arguments, individuals strengthen their own stance, and the group’s overall position shifts toward that more extreme end. The direction of the shift tends to follow the group’s prevailing lean, with the discussion amplifying the majority view and commitment to it. This is why, after group deliberation, opinions become more polarized rather than more moderate. The other described patterns don’t fit: moderation would mean softening rather than hardening of positions, ignoring input isn’t the mechanism at play, and becoming more cautious without changing the stance isn’t polarization.