What is referred to as the tendency of group members to adopt more extreme positions after group discussions?

The tendency of group members to adopt more extreme positions after group discussions is known as group polarization. This phenomenon occurs when discussions among like-minded individuals amplify their initial attitudes, leading to more extreme viewpoints than those held individually prior to the conversation.

During group discussions, individuals share their opinions and beliefs, and if the group is generally aligned in their views, the arguments supporting those views become reinforced. This reinforcement can intensify feelings and lead to a collective decision that is more extreme than the initial individual positions. For example, if a group discusses a particular political stance, by the end of the discussion, the consensus may reflect a much stronger version of that stance compared to when the discussion started.

This concept is critical in understanding organizational communication as it highlights how group dynamics can influence decision-making and policy formation within a team or organization, often leading to less consideration for alternative viewpoints or moderation.

The other concepts mentioned refer to different dynamics in group behavior. Groupthink is characterized by a desire for harmony or conformity in a group, leading to dysfunctional decision-making processes. The escalation of commitment describes the tendency to continue investing in a decision despite evidence of its failure. The Abilene paradox involves a situation where a group collectively decides on a course of action that contradicts the preferences