Can a GSS stimulate group polarization? An empirical study
Journal
IEEE Transactions on Systems, Man and Cybernetics Part C: Applications and Reviews
Journal Volume
29
Journal Issue
2
Pages
227-237
Date Issued
1999
Author(s)
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of the electronic communication and anonymity capabilities of a group support system (GSS) on group polarization. Three support levels were studied: verbal support, identified GSS support, and anonymous GSS support. Information exposure was varied at two levels: exposure to positions without arguments and exposure to positions with arguments. The dependent variables were preference change and choice shift. Anonymous GSS groups produced higher choice shift than verbal groups. Anonymous GSS groups who were exposed to positions with arguments also had higher preference change than groups in other treatments. These results indicate that the anonymity and electronic communication capabilities of a GSS can be used conjointly to stimulate group polarization, especially when groups exchange mutual positions and arguments.
Publisher
IEEE, Piscataway, NJ, United States
Type
journal article