Kuliah Psikologi Komunikasi: Sistem Komunikasi Kelompok - PENGARUH KELOMPOK dalam proses KOMUNIKASI

Summary

This lecture on communication psychology explores the dynamics of group communication. It distinguishes between an aggregate (a collection of people) and a group, emphasizing that groups are defined by shared goals and interdependence. The lecture highlights three main effects of group communication: conformity, where individuals align with group behavior; social facilitation, where group settings enhance performance; and polarization, where group discussions amplify extreme views. Overall, the content demonstrates how being part of a group can influence individual thoughts, behaviors, and interactions, shaping communication in unique ways.

Takeaways

• 😀 A group is defined by the interconnectedness and shared goals of its members, whereas an aggregate is simply a collection of people with no common purpose.
• 😀 Groups create a sense of interdependence, meaning the actions of one member can significantly affect the entire group.
• 😀 Group members have an awareness of being part of a collective unit, which distinguishes a group from a random gathering of individuals.
• 😀 Conformity in groups is common, with members aligning with the group’s behaviors, appearance, and opinions.
• 😀 Social facilitation occurs when being part of a group enhances an individual’s performance, often resulting in improved work quality and efficiency.
• 😀 Polarization is the phenomenon where group discussions can amplify individuals' opinions, making them more extreme.
• 😀 In a group, members may become more extreme in their agreement or disagreement on a subject after discussing it within the group.
• 😀 Group communication affects individual behavior, such as making people feel more confident or motivated when working together.
• 😀 Groups are not just about the presence of people in the same space; they require a shared purpose or goal to be considered a true group.
• 😀 Understanding the psychological dynamics of groups (conformity, social facilitation, and polarization) is crucial for effective communication in group settings.

Q & A

What distinguishes a group from just a crowd of people?

A group is characterized by a sense of shared destiny and interdependence, where members are consciously aware of their connection and rely on each other. In contrast, a crowd, such as students waiting for a bus, lacks this mutual connection and purpose.

What is an example of an aggregate and why is it not considered a group?

An aggregate would be students from the same university waiting for a bus after class. Although they are in the same location and at the same time, they are not a group because they don't share a common goal or mutual interdependence.

What are the key characteristics of a group?

The key characteristics of a group include a shared sense of purpose, mutual interdependence, and awareness that members are part of something larger. For example, students planning a visit to an orphanage form a group because they have coordinated a common goal and depend on each other for success.

How does a group's purpose affect its communication dynamics?

A group’s purpose impacts communication by fostering cooperation and collective problem-solving. When individuals in a group share a goal, their communication tends to be more focused and collaborative, as each member's actions are interconnected with the others.

What is conformity within a group, and how does it manifest?

Conformity in a group refers to the tendency of individuals to adopt the behaviors, attitudes, or beliefs that are common in the group. It manifests in ways like matching clothing styles (e.g., punk fashion) or agreeing on opinions, as people in groups often align with the collective norms or views.

What is social facilitation, and how does it influence individual performance?

Social facilitation refers to the tendency for people to perform better on tasks when they are in the presence of others. Being in a group can increase motivation and performance, as seen when individuals work faster or more effectively in the presence of others, like practicing a skill in front of friends.

What does the concept of polarization mean in group dynamics?

Polarization in group dynamics refers to the tendency for opinions within a group to become more extreme after discussion. For example, if someone initially has a moderate stance on an issue but joins a group with strong opinions, their position may become more extreme.

How does joining a group influence an individual's stance on a controversial issue?

Joining a group with strong opinions on a controversial issue often leads to polarization, where an individual’s previously moderate stance becomes more extreme as they align with the group's views, thus amplifying their position.

Why do individuals in a group tend to be more confident or courageous in their actions?

In groups, individuals often feel more supported and empowered, which increases their confidence and willingness to act. This can lead to behaviors like taking risks or expressing opinions they might avoid when alone, as they feel reinforced by the collective support.

What are the psychological effects of being part of a group?

Being part of a group creates a sense of belonging and dependence, where individuals recognize their role within a larger unit. This connection leads to shared responsibility and a heightened sense of accountability, as each member’s actions affect the group as a whole.