Explanations of Resistance to Social Influence

Social Support

The perception that an individual has assistance available from other people, & that they are part of a supportive network 

What did Asch discover about social support

It enables individuals to resist conformity pressure from the majority

• (Line study, conformity in unanimity went from 33% → 5.5%)

It breaks the unanimous position of the majority, raising the possibility that there are other equally legit ways of thinking or responding

• Prescence of ally makes them feel more confident in their decision

Social Support and Resisting Obedience

• Research has shown people more confident to disobey if they can find an ally who’s willing to join them in opposing the authority figure.

• Milgram variation 

Locus of Control

Refers to a person’s perception of personal control over their own behaviour 

Internal locus of control

Believe that what happens to them is largely a consequence of their own ability & effort

• More likely to display independence in thought & behaviour

Internality

Individuals who tend to believe that they’re responsible for their behaviour & experience rather than external forces 

• People high in this, rely less on opinion on others; are better able to resist social influence

External locus of control

Individuals believe that what happens to them is determined by external factors, such as the influence of others or ‘luck’ 

Externality

Individuals who tend to believe that their behaviour & experience is caused by events outside their control

• People high in this, tend to approach events w. a more passive attitude than internals

• Take less personal responsibility for their actions, less likely to display independent behaviour, more likely to accept influence