VARIABLES AFFECTING CONFORMITY

Question 1

Burger for group size (variables effecting conformity)

Answer 1

B: Group size definition
U: Effect of majority size on conformity; increases until majority of three
R: Asch’s study (1956): Conformity rate ~33% with three confederates
G: however don’t know effects of much larger groups
E: Important for understanding optimal group influence on behaviour
R: Weakness: Campbell and Fairey: Group size effects vary by judgment type

Question 2

Burger for unanimity or majority (variables effecting conformity)

Answer 2

B: Unanimity definition
U: Conformity affected by having a dissenter; lowers conformity rate
R: Asch’s study: With one correct dissenter, conformity dropped to 5.5%
G: Strength: Highlights importance of dissent in reducing conformity
E: Relevant for understanding how peer influence can be countered

Question 3

Burger for difficulty of task or majority (variables effecting conformity)

Answer 3

B: Difficulty of task definition
U: More difficult tasks lead to higher conformity; less obvious correct answer
R: asch, when decreasing diferance in lines conformity went up
G: Strength: Explains variability in conformity under different task conditions
E: isi or nsi Important for understanding individual differences in conformity
R: Asch’s research may be a ‘child of its time’ (Perrin and Spencer)