Minority Influence, Status, and the Generation of Novel Ideas

Abstract

Purpose

This research identifies the conditions under which minority views are likely to be influential in problem-solving groups.

Methodology/approach

Predictions that status processes moderate the effect of being exposed to minority views on idea generation are tested with data collected from a controlled laboratory experiment.

Findings

Results indicate some support for the hypotheses that groups exposed to minority views generate more novel ideas, as do groups in which minority views are espoused by higher-status confederates.

Research limitations/implications

Future research is required to establish the parameters that reduce flawed decision making based on convergence around the majority view.

Social implications

Groups may realize their problem-solving potential through the consideration of more information and an examination of alternative views to the majority view by exposure to minority views, particularly those presented by higher-status people.

Originality/value

By integrating status characteristics theory and minority influence theory, we explain how the greater attention granted to higher-status people and their ideas results in the generation of more unique ideas by other members in a group. The integrated theory explains how status processes affect the consideration of ideas, the examination of alternatives to the majority view, and the generation of new ideas among group members.

Citation

Youngreen, R. and Byron, J. (2016), "Minority Influence, Status, and the Generation of Novel Ideas", Advances in Group Processes (Advances in Group Processes, Vol. 33), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 127-158. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0882-614520160000033005