ASCH - variables/factors affecting conformity

• ways:

  -non-unanimous majority

  -size of majority

  -difficulty of task
• non-unanimous majority

  -Asch found levels dropped dramatically when one other P dissented majority

  -supporting naive P

  -dissenter only had to give different answer - could be different

  -reduced conformity to 5%

  -unanimous majority of 3 most effective
• most effective size of unanimous majority?


  3
• size of majority


  -size of majority was 2 - conformity dropped to 12.8%

  -optimum conformity of 32% found in group of 3

  -increasing group above 3 didn't increase conformity levels

  (Baron & Byrne)
• Baron & Byrne 


  -suggest people may suspect collusion if majority rises beyond 3 or 4

  -no conformity effects with one confederate
• difficulty of task


  -Asch reduced clarity of task / increased difficulty = conformity increased

  -Asch made lines closer in length so was harder for Ps to know difference
• cultural differences - Smith & Bond


  -reviewed 31 studies of conformity from different countries

  -people in collectivist cultures showed high conformity

  -collectivist societies focus on what's best for group

  -individualistic focus on best for individual (achievement & success)
• factors increasing conformity levels


  -unanimous groups

  -difficult task

  -being deserted by partner who'd previously given correct answers
• factors decreasing conformity levels


  -non-unanimous majority

  -majority of only 2 people

  -writing responses rather than calling them aloud