Although most focus group theorists consider interaction to be a defining feature of focus groups, the influence that occurs through this interaction has been under-theorized. We argue that two important forms of influence may occur: influence on people's beliefs about the substantive issues under discussion and influence on self-efficacy beliefs.…

Interest has recently focused on group polarization as a function of attitude processes. Several recent reviewers have challenged polarization researchers to integrate the explanations of polarization to existing theories of attitude change. This review suggests that there exists a clear similarity between the social comparison and persuasive…

Examines how individual status characteristics (expertise, occupational status, physical attractiveness, and majority and minority argument quality) influence minority member persuasiveness. Demonstrates that, although all variables influenced perceived status, only relative argument quality had a direct impact on attitude change. (SR)

A mathematical model that describes attitude change in human communication networks is developed in this paper. The parameters of the model are drawn from a review of the literature related to network analysis, small group influence, mass communication, and attitude change. The literature review identifies key variables that influence attitude…

Four coorientation variables--congruency, accuracy, agreement, and feelings of being understood--were examined after each of 15 meetings of a discussion group composed of 12 graduate students in education. It was hypothesized that group members' accuracy and agreement regarding salient group issues would increase over time, and that congruency and…