Being apart of a group is something humans all take part in. We are grouped by color, race, upper class, lower class, ethnicity and so much more. When we become a part of a group it gives us a sense of who we are and helps us to identify with others who have similar qualities or helps us to work towards a common goal.
Although groups settings create alot of positive benefits, sometimes they can often create negative effects. The book talks about group polarization which is when the group polarizes (become more extreme) then it has initially started. (group polarization, 2005) Group polarization can sway things in a direction that is less favorable and potentially cause division. It kind of reminds me of how things work in politics and how there should be one major group in the decision making. However, the groups are split up for those who have opposing views.
Sometimes the effect of changing viewpoints can have a normative influence. People can be pressured to think, act or choose a certain way due to the desire of pleasing others. This can really negatively impact the groups decisions and outcome because people are operating and deciding based off of their peer pressure.
Another type of influence that can occur is informational influence. This can impact a group when information is provided and serves as evidence to influence a groups decision. This can be beneficial because your finding out the facts and making the appropriate decision from there.
Overall, there are many factors to consider when being apart of a group. The decisions made can negatively or positively impact the group as a whole so it is important to research, gain knowledge, and not be influenced by peer pressure when making a decisions or providing input into a group.
Works Cited
Schneider, F. W., Gruman, J. A., & Coutts, L. M. (2005). Applied social psychology: understanding and addressing social and practical problems. Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications.