social influence - conformity Flashcards
Define conformity
When an individual changes their behaviour or beliefs to fit in with those of a group, due to group pressure.
Define internalisation
When an individual changes their public and private views or behaviour to match those of a group- the group has genuinely changed the person’s mind.
This is a long-lasting change and will continue outside of the group situation.
Define identification
When an individual changes their public views to match those of a group, because they value the group and wish to be part of it (identify with it).
There may be a difference between the individual’s public and private views. The change is likely to last as long as the individual is with the group.
Define compliance
When an individual changes their public, but not private, behaviour or beliefs to match those of a group - this is a superficial type of conformity.
This is a short-term change and will only last as long as the individual in in that situation.
Outline the informational social influence (ISI) explanation of social conformity
When someone is influenced because they look to others for guidance- they are uncertain how to behave and believe the group knows more than them.
This happens in new or uncertain situations (for example starting a new job and being unsure of the correct procedures).
ISI tends to lead to internalisation.
Outline the normative social influence (NSI) explanation of social conformity
When someone is influenced to fit in with the social norms and values of a particular group to gain their approval - they conform in order to not stand out or appear different (for example checking what your friends are wearing before meeting up, so you can dress similarly).
The individual’s private views can differ, so NSI often results in compliance.
Evaluate ISI explanation of social conformity - Lucas
Lucas et al (2006) found that when presented with difficult maths problems to solve, participants were more likely to conform to the majority answer, showing that people will conform due to the need for information (ISI).
Evaluate NSI explanation of social conformity - Asch
Asch (1951) found that people conformed to a majority, even giving an obviously wrong answer. This supports that people will conform in order to fit in with a group (NSI).
Evaluate the NSI and ISI explanations of social conformity - individual differences
Individual differences are not considered- the explanations assume everyone is affected by ISI and NSI in the same way. Some people do not wish to fit in with a group, due to their personality- these explanations do not account for this.
