Social Influence: Conformity and Obedience

These flashcards cover key concepts of social influence, including definitions of conformity, obedience, and related factors based on the lecture notes.

What do social psychologists believe about behavior?

Social psychologists believe that behavior is influenced by the actual, imagined, or implied presence of others. For example, individuals may behave more kindly in a public setting when they are being watched.

What is conformity? What are norms? What are the two reasons that people conform?

Conformity is the change in perceptions, opinions, or behaviors to align with group norms. Norms are the accepted standards of behavior. People conform for two main reasons: normative social influence (fear of rejection) and informational social influence (belief that others are correct). For instance, a student may choose to dress similarly to their peers to fit in.

How did Solomon Asch study conformity? What did he find?

Solomon Asch studied conformity by conducting experiments where participants had to choose between two lines that were obviously different in length. He found that a significant number of people conformed to the group’s incorrect answer, demonstrating the power of group influence. An example of this is when individuals agree with a group answer even when they know the answer is wrong.

What makes conformity less likely? What is reactance?

Conformity is less likely when individuals feel that their freedom of choice is being threatened or when they have strong independent attitudes. Reactance is behavior in opposition to social influence when individuals feel that their freedom is threatened. For example, if someone is pressured to join a group activity, they may choose to opt out instead.

What is obedience? How did Milgram study obedience?

Obedience is behavior influenced by the direct commands of an authority figure. Milgram studied obedience by instructing participants to administer shocks to a subject, finding that over 60% complied with commands to shock at maximum voltage. An example is a person following a police officer’s order even when they personally disagreed with it.

What were some variations of the Milgram experiment that reduced the rate of obedience?

Variations that reduced obedience included having the experimenter give commands via phone, placing the subject closer to the participant, and providing alternative instructions that contradicted the experimenter. For example, participants showed reduced obedience when they were not in the same room as the person giving instructions.

Why do people obey?

People obey due to the influence of authority figures, social norms, and the desire to avoid conflict or repercussions. An example is adhering to workplace rules in order to maintain harmony and avoid disciplinary action.