Minority Influence AO3

• What is a strength of minority influence according to the study material?

  There is research support for flexibility as a characteristic needed for minority influence.
• What did Nemeth study in relation to minority influence?

  He studied the role of flexibility in a simulated jury situation regarding compensation for an accident.
• What was the effect of a confederate refusing to change his position in Nemeth's study?

  It had no effect on other group members.
• What happened when a confederate compromised during the negotiations?

  They exerted an influence on the rest of the group.
• Why is flexibility important for a minority according to the study material?

  It shows some understanding of the majority’s opinion, especially later in negotiations.
• What is the conclusion about flexibility in minority influence from the study material?

  • Flexibility is an essential behavioral style/characteristic to influence others.
  • It is supported by research findings.
• What is a strength of the minority influence in decision-making?

  It improves the quality of communication and decisions.
• How does the minority influence affect the majority according to Nemeth (2010)?

  It opens the minds of the majority, prompting them to search for information and consider more options.
• What is the effect of dissenters on group discussions?

  Dissenters liberate people to express their beliefs, even if they are wrong.
• Why is having a minority opinion important in group decision-making?

  It increases the likelihood of making better-informed decisions as more people are willing to discuss their ideas.
• In what situations can the minority influence be particularly useful?

  • Important situations such as jury decisions
  • Scenarios requiring diverse perspectives
  • Contexts where critical thinking is essential
• What is a weakness of the minority opinion according to the study material?

  The minority opinion may not be influential in some cases.
• What does Nemeth (2010) claim about people's acceptance of dissent?

  People accept the principle of dissent only on the surface but become irritated by persistent dissenting views.
• Why do people fear welcoming dissent in a group?

  They fear the lack of harmony within the group.
• How do people typically respond to dissenting views?

  People attempt to belittle the dissenting view or contain it.
• What societal behavior is encouraged regarding conformity?

  People are encouraged to ‘fit in’ and fear repercussions.
• What is the consequence of dismissing minority views?

  Opportunities for innovative thinking associated with minority influence are lost.
• What conclusion can be drawn about the influence of minority opinions?

  The minority opinion is not always influential.