Chapter 6 Flashcards
Norm formation
The emergence of a social norm. The way people subconsciously agree on what is “real” or how things must be done.
Conformity
A change in behavior or belief to accord with others.
Compliance
Conforming to an expectation or request without really believing in what you are doing.
Obedience
Complying with a direct command.
Acceptance
Genuinely believing in what the group has persuaded you to do.
Reactance
People act to protect their sense of freedom.
Group pressure
When everyone in a group is acting a particular way, an individual will feel pressured to conform.
Asch study
When asked to compare lengths of lines, the three people (actors) before the participant answer incorrectly. The participant must choose between the obviously correct answer and conformity.
Sherif study
People in a dark room must estimate how far a light moved. There is no right answer. At first they are tested individually and then together. When together they eventually come to a “group” conclusion which lasts for generations of participants and fades only gradually.
Milgram study
A “teacher” shocks a “learner” (who is an actor) every time he gets an answer wrong. Most people gave the highest shock because of the experimenter’s insistence.
Who conforms
People who are agreeable, conscientious, more concerned about pathogens, value smooth social experiences, traditions, and doubt the existence of free will are more likely to conform.
Social roles
Social life is like acting on a theatrical stage. Some roles allow freedom but there are some required elements to fulfill the role. (Ex: students must take exams).
Social norm
A social habit or expectation held by a group of people for each member.
Normative influence
“Going along with the crowd” out of a desire to be liked.
Informational influence
How beliefs spread through observing and making inferences from others’ behaviors.
