Individual Factors Affecting Conformity

Question 1

How will self-esteem impact a persons conformity?

Answer 1

• Santee & Maslach found that people who have higher levels of self esteem are less likely to conform
• People who like to be in control are also less likely to conform, as this personality trait would not allow it

Question 2

How would gender impact someones conformity rates?

Answer 2

• Historically women have higher conformity rates due to them having taken on the role of promoting harmony
• Mori & Arai

Question 3

How does someones age impact their conformity rates?

Answer 3

• Younger individuals are more likely to conform than older ones, perhaps due to a lack of experience or status
• Steinberg & Monahan found that conformity levels seem to remain the same between the ages of 10 and 14, however after this age conformity levels decrease until age 18 where it remains steady until early adulthood

Question 4

What effect does thought processes have on conformity levels?

Answer 4

• Hornsey et al (2003) found that if someone has strong opinion regarding an issue, they’re less likely to conform
• (Australian same sex marriage)