Psychology Social Influence

• What is Conformity?

  Matching attitudes, beliefs and behaviours to group norms. Changing opinions as a result of real or imagined pressure from a person or group of people
• What are the two explanations for conformity?

  Normative social influence and informational social influence.
• What is ISI?

  An explanation for conformity that says we agree with the opinion of the majority because we believe that is correct. We accept it because we want to be correct as well
• What is NSI?

  An explanation for conformity that says we agree with the opinion of the majority because we want to gain social approval and be liked
• when is ISI most likely to occur?

  • new situations
  • ambiguous situations
  • crisis situations
• where is NSI more likely to occur?

  • situations with strangers (fear of rejection)
  • social approval of friends
  • stressful situations
• Pros and cons of ISI?

  Pros:

  • research support- confirmed move to an incorrect answer when the task is difficult which shows people conform when they’re unsure. Cons:
  • Individual differences- little conformity, showing some are less likely to seek info from others
• Pros and cons of NSI?

  Pros:

  • Naffiliations- people in high need of affiliation are more likely to conform showing that’s what causes conformity
  • Cons:
  • Individual differences- some people are concerned about being liked.
  • Doesn't affect everyone behaviour in the same way
• What are the 3 types of conformity?

  Compliance, identification, and internalization.