Lesson 1 Types of conformity

Question 1

What is social Psychology

Answer 1

Social Psychology looks at the relationships between people and how people affect each other’s behaviour (social influence).

Question 2

What is conformity

Answer 2

Conformity is a form of social influence where a person changes their behaviour, attitudes or beliefs so that they are in line with the majority. This occurs because of pressure from the majority, this pressure can be real or imagined.

Question 3

Compliance definition

Answer 3

Compliance is when individuals adjust the behaviour, attitudes or beliefs they show in public, so that they are in line with the majority. There is no change to private behaviour, attitudes or beliefs and conformity only lasts while the group is present. It is therefore a superficial and temporary form of conformity.

Question 4

Internalisation definition

Answer 4

Internalisation is when individuals adjust their behaviour, attitudes or beliefs, publically AND privately, so that they are in line with the majority. The individual examines their own behaviour, attitudes or beliefs based on what others are saying and decides that the majority is correct. This is deeper than compliance and more permanent.

Question 5

Identification definition

Answer 5

Identification is when an individual accepts social influence because they want to be associated with a role model or a social group. By adopting the role model/group’s behaviour, attitudes or beliefs they feel connected to the role model/group.