Minority influence

Question 1

Minority influence

Answer 1

a form of social influence in which a minority of people persuades others to adopt their beliefs, attitudes or behaviours. Leads to internalisation or conversion, in which private attitudes are changed as well as public behaviours

Question 2

Consistency

Answer 2

minority influence is most effective if the minority keeps the same beliefs, both over time and between all the individuals that form the minority. It’s effective because it draws attention to the minority view.

Question 3

Commitment

Answer 3

minority influence is more powerful if the minority demonstrates dedication to their position. for example, by making personal sacrifices. This is effective because it shows the minority is not acting out self-interest.

Question 4

Flexibility

Answer 4

Relentless consistency could be counter-productive if it is seen by the majority and unbending and unreasonable. Therefore minority influence is more effective if the minority show flexibility by accepting the possibility of compromise