Social Influence

Question 1

types of conformity

Answer 1

• compliance
• obedience
• acceptance

Question 2

What can we imply from classic conformity studies

Answer 2

attitudes fail to determine behaviour when external influences override them

Question 3

social identity theory (Tajfel and Turner, 1979)

Answer 3

• normative and informational influence do not consider group belonging
• we adhere to group norms because we believe the group is part of who we are
• the group from is internalised and becomes an appropriate was to act for members of that group

Question 4

People more influenced than others: Personality/individual differences: (Mischel, 1968)

Answer 4

• fairly weak connections
• low self esteem, high need for social support, a need for self-control, low IQ, high anxiety > greater conformity
• compared to gender, perceived expertise and uncertainty are more likely to exert a direct influence on conformity

Question 5

conversion theory (Moscovici, 1980)

Answer 5

argues that minority impact lies in their own behavioural style (clear and consistent)

Question 6

compliance

Answer 6

people do as they are asked and required by formal regulations but without changing their beliefs

Question 7

normative influence

Answer 7

conforming to the positive expectations of other people, to gain approval or avoid disapproval

Question 8

informational influence

Answer 8

through a desire to be correct, in times of uncertainty others are used as a source of information and can lead to acceptance/conversion

Question 9

diachronic consistency

Answer 9

each member of the minority must not waiver in their opinion, in order to show stability over time

Question 10

synchronic consistency

Answer 10

all member of the minority group have the same opinion, so are displaying stability across the group and its members