3A Society: Social Values and Practice

Question 1

Define Covert influences

Answer 1

Those influences that are not easily observable. The individual/group is aware of what is going on while the other person/group is unaware that the person is trying to influence them.

Question 2

Define Overt influences

Answer 2

Those influences/behaviours that are easily observable, direct attempts to change beliefs or behaviour. The individual/group knows what is going on and so does the other party.

Question 3

Describe the research of Chambers & Malnyk in relation to abortion.

Answer 3

• Study of pro-choice and pro-life abortion activists
• Wanted to research previous research findings that opposing groups have incorrect perceptions about other’s beliefs and values
• Members of each group overestimated the degree of disagreement between the groups about their own central values
• Overestimating had flow on effects - thought more favourable of their own group (used traits e.g. trustworthiness, intelligence)
• Opposing groups disliked each other and held negative views of each other because of their interpretation that their rivals oppose the principles that are important to them

Question 4

Define decision making.

Answer 4

Problem solving that involves choice from a range of alternatives

Question 5

What needs to be considered when an individual is making a decision?

Answer 5

• The value of the alternative

- The likely outcome of the decision

Question 6

Explain the two types of decision making strategies.

Answer 6

• Compensatory strategy: how the desirable effects of the decision will compensates the undesirable effect (weigh up all the options)
• Non-compensatory strategy: Where the pros and cons are not systematically weighed up (rash decision/process of elimination)