Social Psychology: topic 3 ‘explanations for conformity’

Question 1

What is normative social influence?

Answer 1

• explains conformity as being the result of an individual changing to a group position in order to be accepted / gain approval and not be perceived as deviant by other members of the group
• based on desire to be liked
• human beings are social species and have a strong need for acceptance by the majority and fear of rejection
• involves public compliance where people may ‘go along’ with the behaviour and attitudes without truly believing or accepting it
• do not privately accept what we are saying or doing publicly

Question 2

What is informational social influence?

Answer 2

• explains conformity as being the results of people who are unsure what to do in a situation (eg do not know the correct way to act) so look to others with seemingly more information in order to identify correct behaviour
• if a situation is new or ambiguous we look to other as a source of information to help us perceive the situation accurately and reduce ambiguity
• we tend to seek guidance from those who we see as better informed
• desire to be right
• involves private acceptance
• can results in a change in private beliefs and attitudes