Define group polarization.

Group polarization refers to the tendency for group discussions to enhance the prevailing attitudes of the group, leading members to adopt more extreme positions than they would individually endorse. When individuals within a group share their views, the collective discussion often amplifies these views, resulting in a stronger tilt toward the dominant viewpoint. This occurs because members are exposed to similar beliefs, which can reinforce and solidify their opinions.

In contrast, the other options represent different phenomena. For instance, adopting more moderate opinions would imply a dilution of views rather than an intensification, and apathy toward group goals indicates a disengagement from motivation rather than a change in opinion extremes. Additionally, achieving group consensus, which leads to individual disagreements, would not generally result in the extreme positions associated with group polarization. Therefore, the correct definition accurately captures the essence of how group dynamics can shift attitudes toward more radical endpoints.