Lessons 1-2 - Types and explanations for conformity

Question 1

Compliance

Answer 1

• A superficial type of conformity
• Only public views are changed, not private ones
• You do not want to be the odd one out

Question 2

Internalisation

Answer 2

• Deeper and more permanent form of conformity
• The individual deems the position of the majority as correct.
• Both private and public views are changed

Question 3

Identification

Answer 3

• A moderate type of conformity
• We deem the opinions of the group as correct because we see something of value in the group. We may admire them
• You will change your opinions publicly but not privately

Question 4

Who developed the two process theory for conformity?

Answer 4

Deutsch and Gerard (1955)

Question 5

Informational Social Influence

Answer 5

• Conformity is driven by the need to be right
• We conform because we are unsure of the correct answer.
• Conformity occurs in situations that are ambiguous, complex and rapid action is required.
• Likely to result in internalisation

Question 6

Normative Social Influence

Answer 6

• Driven by a need to be liked
• We only act in a way that is within the ‘norm’ of the group and we do not act in a way that will get us ridiculed
• Likely to lead to compliance.

Question 7

Strengths of the two process theory of conformity

Answer 7

• Lucas et al (2006)
• Asch (1951)

Question 8

Lucas et al (2006)

Answer 8

• Lucas gave a group of students a series of easy and hard maths questions.
• Conformity occurred more when there were harder questions. This supports ISI as this shows that conformity occurs when the situation is ambiguous.
• Occurred especially with students who felt that their own maths skills were poor

Question 9

Weaknesses of the two process theory of conformity

Answer 9

• Lacks population validity. Some people are more concerned with being liked and ‘affiliating’ with a group. These people are called nAffiliators. They are more likely to conform to a group’s opinion. This is shown in McGhee and Teevan (1967) who studied students. Therefore, NSI cannot be applied to everyone.
• Lab studies for NSI and ISI lack ecological validity. Asch (1951) for example lacks mundane realism.