9. Conformity

What factors influenced conformity in Asch's experiment?

Group size and whether the group is unanimous.

In Asch's experiment, how many confederates were present for every participant?

6 confederates and 1 participant.

What were the two main reasons participants conformed in Asch’s study?

• Wanted to be part of the group

• did not want to experience criticism.

How did group size affect conformity in Asch's experiment?

Conformity:

• did not significantly increase with more than four confederates

• decreased after exceeding fifteen.

What is Unanimity in the context of conformity?

Complete agreement among group members as to what the answer is.

What is the role of an ally in a group conformity scenario?

An ally can provide social support, strengthening resistance to conformity.

What is Informational influence?

Conformity resulting from a need for direction and information on the correct response to a specific situation.

Why does Informative influence occur

• participants want to provide correct response but are unsure about the correct answer.

• participant feels incompetent

• task is difficult

What is Normative influence?

• occurs when we conform to a group situation due to social norms because we want to fit in, , gain approval & praised

In which cultures was the lowest conformity observed?

Individualist cultures, such as those in Europe. where being individualist is valued over the achievement of group goals.

In which cultures was higher conformity observed?

Collectivist cultures, such as those in Asia and Africa where group goals is more important than personal goals

What is Social loafing?

• The tendency to exert less effort in a group activity compared to working alone.

• Conforming occurs because individuals believe their conforming won’t create much of an influence on group decisions.

What is Deindividuation?

The loss of individuality, inhibition of personal responsibility and anonymity resulting from being in a group situation, allowing individuals to act as a group rather than their own ,

Ethical issues in conformity studies

• deception

• participants do not truly give consent

What is conformity?

• tendency to adjust one’s thoughts, feelings or behaviours in order to be more consistent with those of other people, groups or social norms.