Explanations for conformity Flashcards
What are the explanations for conformity
1) Normative social influence
2) Informational social influence
What is NSI
Normaltive social influence
= A form of social influence where an individual conforms w the expectations of the majority to gain approval or avoid social disapproval
What is ISI
Informational social influence
= a form of influence which is the result of a desire to be right, looking to others as a way of gaining evidence ab reality
ISI is more likely if…
The situation is ambiguous
Others are experts
Important condition of NSI
Must believe they are under surveillance by the group
Eval for explanations for conformity
+Research support: NSI
+Research support: ISI
-NSI might not be detected
Eval for explanations for conformity: Research support NSI
+Research support for NSI
Linkenbach & Perkins: teens exposed to message that the majority of peers didnt smoke were less likely to smoke
Schultz: hotel guests exposed to message that 75% of hotel guests reuse towels each day reduced own towel use by 25%
= shows power of NSI
∴Can be used economically (eg energy consumption) or to promote healthy habits (eg smoking behaviour)
Eval for explanations for conformity: Research support ISI
+ Research support for ISI
Wittenbrink & Henley: found participants exposed to negative info ab AA later reported more negative attitudes towards black individuals
Demonstrates exposure to other peoples beliefs shape behaviour
=shows power of ISI
∴ can be used politically
Eval for explanations for conformity: NSI might not be detected
-NSI might not be detected
Whilst NSI has undoubted influence, ppl dont recognise others behaviour as a causal influence
Nolan: energy conservation behaviour, ppl believed neighbours behaviour had least impact but results show it had strongest impact
Ppl rely on beliefs ab what should motivate behaviour
= underdetect impact of NSI
