Conformity Flashcards
Define social influence
The process by which ones actions, beliefs or behaviour are changed in the presence of other people
Examples are majority influence, minority influence and obedience
Define conformity
This occurs when people adopt the behaviour, attitudes or beliefs of the majority after being exposed to their values or behaviour
How is conformity good sometimes?
Glue that holds our society together and is functional
If we did not conform to social norms around us then there would be chaos as we would not be able to predict people’s behaviour, resulting in uncertainty
EXPLANATIONS OF CONFORMITY
Define informational social influence
The need to be right
Occurs when no correct or obvious answer to question posed so we look to others for information as we don’t know what to do
Supported by more difficult task is made, more we conform as we are more uncertain due to lack of information
EXPLANATIONS OF CONFORMITY
Define normative social influence
The need to be liked
Want to be accepted to avoid embarrassment
Basic need to be accepted by group. Need so strong that group doesn’t have to be meaningful to us, can be strangers
We go along with behaviour etc even if we don’t believe in it ourselves and won’t change private opinions
EXPLANATIONS OF CONFORMITY
Define identification to social roles and expectations
We internalise what is expected of us when we take on certain roles and conform to these expectations
Eg zimbardos prison study
Informational social influence is an explanation of conformity, what TYPE of conformity does it lead too?
Internalisation
Normative social influence is an explanation of conformity, what TYPE of conformity does it lead too?
Compliance
Identification to social roles and expectations is an explanation of conformity, what TYPE of conformity does it lead too?
Identification
Define internalisation
Type of conformity
Most permanent form of conformity
Occurs as people believe in norms of group and will continue to even when group pressure is removed
Public behaviour and private opinion change
Becomes part of individuals own thinking
Define compliance
Type of conformity
Going along with group without a change in personal attitude
Person conforms but doesn’t necessarily agree
Only lasts as long as group pressure is exerted
Define identification
Type of conformity
We identify with the roles assigned to us and act according to this role
May not always be enthusiastic with these roles
Ur act different in ur job as a shop assistant to how you do as a friend
