What contributes to the phenomenon of group polarization?

Group polarization occurs when members of a group discuss a particular issue, and as a result, their viewpoints become more extreme or intensified. The enhancement of prevailing opinions during discussions is a key factor in this phenomenon.

When individuals within a group share similar beliefs, the discussions often reinforce those beliefs rather than challenging them. Members tend to advocate for stronger or more extreme positions based on group dynamics and the desire to align with the prevailing perspective. This amplification of shared beliefs leads to a collective shift in attitudes, reinforcing the initial stance and resulting in a more polarized group viewpoint.

The other options do not contribute to group polarization in the same direct way. For instance, encouraging diverse opinions typically leads to less polarization, as it introduces alternative viewpoints that can mitigate extreme positions. External pressures from non-group members can influence group dynamics but do not inherently lead to the enhancement of prevailing opinions within the group itself. Lastly, replacing weak arguments in debate might improve the overall quality of discussion but does not directly contribute to the polarization of opinions.