Conformity Flashcards
What effect does increased group size have on conformity?
Increased group size increases the likelihood of people to conform
This is supported by studies like those conducted by Asch.
How does task difficulty affect conformity?
People are more likely to conform as task difficulty increases
This suggests that uncertainty in task performance leads to greater reliance on group consensus.
What is the main reason for conformity according to Asch’s studies?
Common agreement among the group
This emphasizes the influence of social pressure on individual decision-making.
Define informational social influence.
Agree with the opinion of the majority because they believe it to be correct
This type of influence leads to internalization of beliefs.
What is normative social influence?
Agreeing with the opinion of the majority to gain social approval and be liked
This often leads to compliance rather than true belief.
What is compliance in the context of conformity?
Outwardly going along with the group while privately disagreeing
This behavior usually lasts only as long as the group is monitoring the individual.
What does identification mean in the context of social behavior?
Acting in the same way as a group to be part of it
This can lead to adopting the group’s beliefs temporarily.
What is internalization in terms of conformity?
Taking on the majority view as correct and maintaining that view in private
This leads to a permanent change in someone’s beliefs.
Fill in the blank: The majority’s opinion is often believed to be _______.
correct
What is Conformity?
Conformity refers to the act of matching attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors to group norms or expectations.
What was the aim of Asch’s Line Study?
To investigate the degree to which individuals conform to the majority who gave incorrect answers.
How many participants were in Asch’s Line Study?
Participants were tested individually with a group of 6-8 confederates.
What were the results of Asch’s Line Study?
Participants gave wrong answers 36.8% of the time, with 75% conforming at least once and 25% never giving a wrong answer.
What conclusion can be drawn from Asch’s Line Study?
Judgment can be affected by majority opinion even when the answer is obviously wrong.
What are the evaluation points for Asch’s Line Study?
Participants were deceived, there was no informed consent, and it lacks generalizability due to low external validity.