Glossary

Question 1

Social Influence.

Answer 1

The process by which an individuals attitudes, beliefs or behaviours are modified by the actual, imagined or implied response of others.

Question 2

Conformity.

Answer 2

The tendency to change our behaviour or beliefs/attitudes in response to the influence of others.

Question 3

Obedience.

Answer 3

Where an individual complies with a direct order from a figure with perceived authority. (individual responds in a way they would not have without the order)

Question 4

Compliance.

Answer 4

Conforms publicly within the views/behaviours of others but privately disagrees.

Question 5

Identification.

Answer 5

Adopts the views of a group publicly and privately because they identify with the group and feel a sense of membership (may only be temporary- not maintained when left the group).

Question 6

Internalisation.

Answer 6

True change of private views to match those of the group. New attitudes/behaviours become part of the individual’s value system. The change is permanent and long-term.

Question 7

Normative Social Influence.

Answer 7

Desire to be liked and for the approval of others and to be accepted. Often results in compliance only as many publicly go along with the group to be accepted but privately disagree.

Question 8

Informational Social Influence.

Answer 8

Desire to be right. Look to others to give us information about how to behave/think. Particularly occurs in new or ambiguous situations. Often results in identification or internalisation as the desire to be right would mean the individual is likely to both publicaly and privately agree with the majority opinion/behaviour.