types and explanations of conformity Flashcards
Name the two explanations of conformity.
Normative and informational social influence.
What is informational social influence?
To be right - when you are unsure of what to do you follow the group and conform.
What is normative social influence?
To be liked - when you want to fit in with a group and be socially accepted.
Give an example of a study that shows informational social influence.
Sherif (1935) - autokinetic effect.
Outline the research by Sherif (1935) into conformity.
Ptps were asked how far the dot of light had moved. They were asked this twice, alone and in a group. Half the ptps were asked first in a group and then alone, the other were asked first alone and then in a group.
He found that when asked alone first the ptp would change their answer the second time to fit in with the group. However, when asked in a group first they would stick to the groups answer when asked alone later.
This shows informational social influence as when unsure what to do ptp will go with the group.
Also shows internalisation.
Give an example of a study that shows normative social influence.
Asch (1951).
Outline the research by Asch (1951) into conformity.
Lab experiment, repeated measures, male uni students.
Each ptp saw two large white cards on each trial. The line X is the standard line and lines A, B, and C are the three comparison lines.
One comp. line is always of equal length as line X.
on each trial the ptp had to say out loud which of the comp. lines was the same length as the standard line X. The ptps were tested in groups of 6-8. Only one was a genuine ptp. Always seated second to last.
The rest were confederates - they all gave the same incorrect, scripted answer each time.
Ptps did not know they were confederates.
Ptps agreed with confederates 36.8% of the time. There were individual differences, 25% of ptps never gave the wrong answer.
Shows normative influence - complied and knew they were wrong but did so to fit in.
Name the three types of conformity.
Compliance.
Identification.
Internalisation.
Define compliance.
They change behaviour but not mind, they knew what they were doing was wrong, but did so to fit in. (ASCH)
Define identification.
They change their behaviour and mind for a period of time, but it can be changed back - temporary. (ZIMBARDO)
Define internalisation.
They change their behaviour and mind and they believe what they are doing is right - permanent. (SHERIF)
