7B - The influence of obedience and conformity on behaviour

Obedience

Complying with commands which are given by a source of authority

Status of authority figure

Individuals are more likely to obey the commands of those they perceive to have status or power.

Proximity

Individuals are more likely to obey the commands of those to whom they are physically close. Individuals are also more likely to obey someone who they have a closer relationship with.

Group pressure

Individuals are more likely to obey commands when they observe others obeying the commands.

Conformity

adjusting one’s thoughts, feelings or behaviours to match those of others, a social group or a social situation.

Social norms

Society’s unofficial rules and expectations regarding how individuals should act. Individuals may be more likely to conform so that they dont appear abnormal for not following social norms.

Groupthink

A psychological phenomenon in which assumed group unanimity overrules individuals realistic appraisal of consequences.

Groupshift

A condition in which the influence of the group causes an individual to adopt a more extreme position. Individuals are more likely to conform if the group in which they are in is highly influential to them.

Deindividuation

The tendency for individuals to lose their sense of identity and individuality within a group. Individuals are most likely to conform if they believe that their behaviours, feelings are invisible or anonymous.