Group polarization vs. groupthink
After discussing a proposed tuition increase, a group of students who each mildly opposed it now strongly opposes it. This illustrates:
Answer D: explanation for every choice
A
Groupthink is the desire for harmony leading a cohesive group to suppress dissent and make poor decisions. The stem describes views becoming more extreme, not dissent being silenced.
B
Social loafing is reduced effort on group tasks.
C
Deindividuation is loss of self-awareness in a group.
D
Correct. Group discussion strengthens the group's initial leaning, so the average view shifts further in the same direction.
TakeawayPolarization: same direction, more extreme. Groupthink: consensus over critical thinking.
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Reviewed 2026-11-05 by a medical student. Spot an error? Report it with question ID ps11.