PSYC315 Lecture 5: Elementary processes in groups

40 Q&A flashcards covering key concepts from Lecture 5 notes on group processes, membership, identity, norms, and related behaviors.

What is the effect of group membership on self-concept?

Group membership changes self-concept; people start to define themselves by the group they belong to.

When you join a group, what happens to your sense of self?

Your self-concept changes and becomes defined by the group membership.

How do people tend to view the department they are placed in?

They tend to see that department as the most important to them.

After becoming part of a group, how may people view other groups?

They may think their own group is better than others.

What does ‘internalized social identity’ mean?

The group’s identity becomes integrated into the person’s self, influencing who they are.

What is identity fusion?

A fusion of personal and social identity where the group becomes central to the self.

What extreme outcomes can result from identity fusion?

People may do anything for the group, including horrific acts.

In the Christchurch example, how was identity fusion illustrated?

Identity with the group was so strong that actions were framed as for the group; media portrayed the individual as a psychopath while livestreaming to the group.

How does cohesive group membership affect self-esteem with feedback?

Positive feedback increases self-esteem; negative feedback decreases it.

What about feedback effects on non-cohesive groups?

Feedback has little to no impact on their self-esteem.

Why do people identify with successful groups?

To boost self-esteem by associating with winners.

What condition enhances the self-esteem benefits of group success?

The group must have high status or be successful.

What is a common process when joining groups?

A ceremony or initiation.

What effect do harsh initiations have on loyalty?

They increase loyalty to the group.

Are initiations always pleasant?

No; many initiations are unpleasant and some can be deadly.

What is the symbolic function of initiation ceremonies?

They signify change in the self and confirm membership in the group.

How can embarrassing acts to join a group affect beliefs?

They can cause cognitive dissonance, leading to attitude changes to justify joining.

What is the Belonging hypothesis?

In threatening situations, fear triggers stronger bonding and cohesion within the group.

How does fear influence group bonding?

Fear and anxiety increase bonding among group members.

What does the trolley problem illustrate about in-group vs out-group harm?

People are more likely to sacrifice an out-group member to protect in-group members.

What does stress do to group cohesion?

Stress can make groups more cohesive and more willing to engage in extreme actions for the group.

In the voyage study, how is social identity related to personal efficacy later?

Social identity predicted personal efficacy nine months after the voyage.

What happened to personal efficacy when participants felt able to sail the ship?

They reported higher personal efficacy nine months later.

How does belonging to a successful voyage group affect later efficacy?

It increases a sense of personal efficacy and belief in one’s abilities.

How does group success influence perceived control and connectedness?

Group success increases perceived control and connectedness for members.

What effect does identifying with winners have on self-esteem?

It boosts self-esteem by aligning with successful groups.

How does high-status group membership relate to anxiety and confidence?

Belonging to a high-status group tends to increase confidence and reduce anxiety through greater belonging.

How is the self-concept defined by group membership?

The self-concept is shaped by the groups one belongs to and the status of those groups.

What does the phrase ‘the group becomes everything to the individual’ describe?

Identity fusion, where group identity dominates personal identity.

How did media portrayal of extremists influence understanding of their behavior?

Media can frame individuals as psychopaths while emphasizing group identity and actions for the group.

What is the role of initiation rituals in membership and identity?

They confirm membership, signal change, and communicate belonging and toughness.

Why might groups use harsh initiations despite harms?

To prove commitment, differentiate members, and increase loyalty.

What cognitive process can occur when someone performs embarrassing acts to join a group?

Cognitive dissonance, leading to attitude change to justify the joining act.

What does fear or adversity do to bonding within a group?

Fear and adversity promote stronger bonding among group members.

What is trauma bonding in the context of group dynamics?

Bonding that occurs through shared traumatic or stressful experiences, strengthening group loyalty.

What does the voyage study suggest about social identity and efficacy over time?

Stronger social identity with the group is linked to greater personal efficacy months later.

What is a key takeaway about group success and personal efficacy?

Group success boosts individuals’ sense of control and capability.

How does group status affect an individual’s sense of control?

Higher group status increases the individual’s sense of control.

What is a core idea about how people are defined in groups?

Self-concept is formed and defined by the groups a person belongs to.

What does fusion of identity imply for behavior?

People may act in ways that support the group, even if it contradicts personal norms.

What does the notes suggest about the role of norms in group behavior?

Norms guide what is acceptable within the group and influence members’ actions.

What is the main focus of Lecture 5?

Elementary processes in groups: how people change, group membership, norms, and identity.

Why can initiation experiences be dangerous or deadly?

Because they are designed to test commitment and loyalty and can cause serious harm.

How do social norms influence group behavior according to the notes?

They constrain and guide behavior, shaping what group members do.