Social Influences Flashcards
Informational Conformity
Conforming because of a belief that others have accurate information.
Group polarization
(McDoom, 2012 – four steps
Explains how conflict occurs as part of Social Identity Theory. McDoom, 2012 argues that the decisions and opinions of people in a group become more extreme than their actual, privately held beliefs
Normative Conformity
Conforming to fit in and be accepted by a group.
In-groups & out-groups
Groups we identify with (in-group) and those we see as different (out-group).
Pluralistic Ignorance
Assuming others accept a norm while personally disagreeing with it.
Strengths & Limitations of SIT
Explains group identity and behavior but oversimplifies intergroup relations.
Interpersonal vs Intergroup
Interpersonal interactions occur between individuals based on personal relationships, while intergroup interactions involve individuals as representatives of their social groups and are often influenced by group dynamics and identities.
Superordinate Goals
Goals that require cooperation between groups or individuals, promoting unity by necessitating collective effort to achieve a shared objective.
Solidarity
A sense of unity, mutual support, and shared identity among individuals or groups, often arising from common interests or goals.
Contact Hypothesis
The theory that meaningful and cooperative interactions between members of different groups can reduce prejudice and improve intergroup relations under the right conditions.
Rct theory
Realistic conflict theory posits intergroup hostility and conflict arise when groups
compete for limited resources. It emphasizes that competition over scarce
resources (material goods, power, or social status) can lead to prejudice,
discrimination, and animosity between groups.
The theory was solidified by the classic Robbers Cave experiment conducted by
Muzafer Sherif in the 1950s. Three key points from RCT are:
1. Resource Scarcity and Competition: When groups perceive that they compete
for limited resources, hostility can arise.
2. Formation of Ingroup and Outgroup Dynamics: Through competition, groups
develop a strong sense of “us” (ingroup) versus “them” (outgroup). This distinction
can lead to negative stereotyping and increased animosity.
3. Superordinate Goals: Intergroup hostility can be reduced when conflicting groups
collaborate on goals that neither group can achieve on its own. These goals supersede their smaller individual goals and encourage cooperation.
Realistic Conflict Theory suggests that competition over limited resources can drive
intergroup hostility, but collaborative efforts towards shared objectives can help mitigate
this conflict.
Culture
Collectivist cultures emphasize group harmony, interdependence, and social responsibility, whereas individualistic cultures prioritize personal autonomy, self-expression, and individual achievements.
Collectivist vs Individualistic
Collectivist cultures emphasize group harmony, interdependence, and social responsibility, whereas individualistic cultures prioritize personal autonomy, self-expression, and individual achievements.
Cultural Dimensions
Hofstede’s cultural dimensions theory identifies key aspects (e.g., power distance, uncertainty avoidance) that influence how societies think, behave, and interact.
Child raising practices
The methods by which caregivers shape a child’s development, influenced by cultural values, social norms, and psychological principles.
Enculturation
The lifelong process of acquiring cultural norms, values, and behaviors through direct and indirect social interactions.
Participatory learning
A hands-on, interactive approach where individuals actively engage in cultural practices and social activities to learn.
Direct tuition
A method of learning where children are explicitly taught behaviors, norms, and skills by authority figures such as parents or teachers.
Observational learning
