1.1: Conformity (majority influence)

Question 1

Research studies of conformity generally involve experiments.
Describe and evaluate the experimental method (6 marks)

Answer 1

The experimental method involves the manipulation of an independent variable in order to see its effect upon a dependent variable

Question 2

Research studies of conformity generally involve experiments.
Describe and evaluate the experimental method (6 marks).
The experimental method involves the manipulation of an independent variable in order to see its effect upon a dependent variable, while what?

Answer 2

The experimental method involves the manipulation of an independent variable in order to see its effect upon a dependent variable, while other variables are controlled (kept constant)

Question 3

Research studies of conformity generally involve experiments.
Describe and evaluate the experimental method (6 marks).
The experimental method involves the manipulation of an independent variable in order to see its effect upon a dependent variable, while other variables are controlled (kept constant), with what?

Answer 3

The experimental method involves the manipulation of an independent variable in order to see its effect upon a dependent variable, while other variables are controlled (kept constant), with participants being randomly allocated to testing conditions

Question 4

Research studies of conformity generally involve experiments.
Describe and evaluate the experimental method (6 marks).
The experimental method involves the manipulation of an independent variable in order to see its effect upon a dependent variable, while other variables are controlled (kept constant), with participants being randomly allocated to testing conditions.

What does this method allow?

Answer 4

This method allows replication in order to assess the validity of findings and allows causality to be established (cause and effect relationships)

Question 5

When we are in a large group of friends, it is very easy to agree with them and simply go along with their views. However, sometimes we are able to resist the pressure to conform. Using what you have learned from studying conformity outline three reasons why we might resist the pressure to conform (6 marks)

Answer 5

Three reasons why we might resist the pressure to conform are:

1. Individual differences - people with high self-esteem or no need for social approval are less likely to go along with the group
2. Cultural factors – individuals from societies that stress the importance of personal determination (for example individualistic cultures) are more likely to resist the pressure to conform than those from collectivist societies
3. The presence of allies – if there is another person who also disagrees, it is easier for the individual to resist the group pressure