Factors Influencing Conformity: Bond and Smith's Meta-Analysis in Social Psychology

What was the aim of Bond and Smith's meta-analysis?

To find the moderator variables that caused variation in levels of conformity.

What is a meta-analysis?

Research that examines and combines the results of many studies to increase confidence in conclusions.

What significant moderator variables did Smith and Bond identify in their analysis?

Normative influence, culture, informational influence, group size, unanimity, deindividuation, and social loafing.

What does normative influence refer to?

A person's tendency to conform to fit in and gain approval from group members.

How does group similarity affect normative influence?

Greater similarity among group members (in age, race, gender) increases normative influence.

What trend has been observed in conformity levels in the USA since the 1950s?

The level of conformity has been found to be decreasing.

How do individualist and collectivist cultures differ in terms of conformity?

Individualist cultures value independence and personal goals, while collectivist cultures prioritize group goals and harmony.

What is informational influence?

The tendency to conform when uncertain about a correct response, believing others are more capable of making accurate judgments.

How did Asch's experiments demonstrate the effect of group size on conformity?

Conformity rates increased to a maximum with three or four confederates and then remained approximately the same.

What effect does unanimity have on conformity rates?

If one confederate gives the correct answer, conformity rates drop significantly.

What factors did Asch identify that influence the difference in conformity when a dissenter is present?

The majority does not criticize the dissenter, social pressure comes from both the majority and the dissenter, and the dissenter reinforces the belief that the majority is wrong.

What is deindividuation?

A psychological state where individuals lose self-awareness and feel less accountable in group settings.

How was deindividuation demonstrated in the Stanford Prison experiment?

By removing individual identifying characteristics of guards and prisoners.

What effect does anonymity have on conformity in group settings?

Participants are less likely to conform when they believe only the experimenter will see their responses.

What is social loafing?

The tendency of individuals to exert less effort when working in a group compared to working alone.

How can social loafing influence conformity?

Participants may conform to avoid the effort of making personal judgments in group tasks.

What is the relationship between group size and conformity according to Asch's findings?

Conformity increases with group size up to a point, specifically three or four confederates.

What cultural differences have been observed in conformity levels between Eastern and Western societies?

Eastern cultures often show higher levels of conformity due to collectivist values, while Western cultures tend to be more individualistic.

What role does the desire for approval play in normative influence?

The desire for approval from significant others increases the tendency to conform.

In what context might someone conform due to informational influence?

When they are uncertain about how to perform a task and seek guidance from others.

What did Bond and Smith conclude about conformity in face-to-face versus simulated groups?

Conformity is higher in face-to-face groups than in simulated groups.

What is an example of a situation where social loafing might occur?

When participants in a group task reduce their effort compared to when they work alone.

What is one reason conformity might be higher in collectivist cultures?

It is considered impolite to point out another person's mistakes, leading to a tendency to conform.

How does the presence of dissenters affect the perception of the majority?

Dissenters can increase the belief that the majority is wrong, reducing conformity.