After a Group of Gang Members Learned That Their Friend

question 221

Multiple Choice

After a group of gang members learned that their friend had died in a seemingly random accident, several of the friends started blaming a rival gang for the death. Even though there was no evidence whatsoever that the death had been intentional, the more the gang members talked, the more passionate they became in their belief that an act of revenge was necessary. What concept from social psychology may contribute to an act of violent revenge in this case?

• A) social influence
• B) prosocial behavior
• C) altruism
• D) groupthink

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Definitions:

Kindling-Sensitization Model

A theory suggesting that repeated exposures to stressful events may lead to an increased sensitivity to stress and eventually contribute to the onset of psychiatric disorders.

Depressive Episode

A period marked by persistent sadness, apathy, and other symptoms that significantly impact an individual's day-to-day functioning.

Mildly Depressed

A state characterized by a low mood to a lesser degree, not meeting the full criteria for major depression.

Religiosity

The degree of religious observance, belief, or fervor in an individual's life.