Social influence Flashcards
Conformity
A change in a persons behaviour or opinions as a result of real or imagined pressure from a person or group of people.
Internalisation
Deep type of conformity where we take on the majority view and accept it as correct. Leads to permanent behaviour that lasts even when group is absent.
Identification
Moderate type of conformity where we act in the same way as the group because we want to be a part of it. Doesn’t necessarily agree with the group.
Compliance
Superficial and temporary type of conformity where we outwardly go with the majority view but privately disagree with it. This change in behaviour only lasts when with the group.
Informational social influence
Conforming with the opinion of the majority because we believe it is correct or because we want to appear correct.
May lead to internalisation.
Normative social influence
Conforming because we want to be accepted or liked.
May lead to compliance.
Social roles
The parts people play as members of various social groups.
These are accompanied by expectations of what is appropriate behaviour in each role.
Obedience
When a person follows a direct order.
The person issuing the order is usually a figure of authority.
Situational variables
Factors (Milgram) believed to influence the level of obedience shown by participants. This includes: Proximity, Location and Uniform.
Agentic state
A mental state where we feel no personal responsibility for our actions because we believe ourselves to be acting from an authority figure.
Legitimacy of authority
An explanation for obedience which suggests that we are , more likely to obey people who we perceive to have authority over us. This authority is justified by the individuals position of power within a social hierarchy.
Authoritarian personality
A type of personality that is especially susceptible to obeying people in authority. Such individuals are also thought to be submissive to those of higher status and dismissive of inferiors.
Resistance to social influence
Refers to the ability of people to withstand the social pressure to confirm to the majority or to obey authority.
Social support
The presence of people who resist pressures to conform or obey can help others do the same. These people act as models to show others that resistance to social influence is possible.
Locus of control LOC
Refers to the sense we each have about what directs our lives.
