The dynamics of groups online

This chapter outlines how online groups form and regulate themselves. It examines the dynamics of online groups compared to their offline counterparts, focusing on why online group membership is an attractive option for many people, especially in today’s digital age. Specifically, the chapter addresses topics such as how roles, norms and group identity are expressed in online groups. Other recent research areas, such as the impact of an over-reliance on online social networks on individuals’ mental wellbeing, and the phenomenon of groupthink related to online groups, are also presented.