Social psychologyLesson 1 of 2 in the course Social Psychology

Group Influence: Conformity, Obedience, and Collective Behavior

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

This lesson introduces conformity through Solomon Asch’s famous line-judgment experiments. It explains how group pressure can influence even an obvious judgment and identifies conditions that make conformity more or less likely.

Solomon Asch studied how people respond when a group gives an answer that conflicts with clear evidence. Participants compared a target line, x, with three lines, a, b, and c, and identified which line was closest in length. The correct answer was deliberately made obvious.

All flashcards

Conformity
Changing behavior to align with a group, even without privately agreeing.
Compliance
Going along with a request or demand, even when one disagrees.
Normative social influence
Conforming to gain acceptance or avoid ridicule.
Obedience
Changing behavior in response to a demand from an authority figure.
Group polarization
A group discussion strengthens the group’s initial attitude.

Quiz questions

  1. In Milgram’s original obedience study, what percentage of participants continued to the maximum voltage?Answer: 65%
  2. In a variation of Milgram’s study, what happened when participants had to touch the learner while delivering the shock?Answer: The rate of delivering the highest shock fell to 30%.
  3. Which situation is most likely to encourage groupthink?Answer: A cohesive, isolated group whose directive leader states a preferred position.
  4. What distinguishes group polarization from groupthink?Answer: Discussion strengthens the group’s initial attitude.
  5. Which practice can reduce social loafing in a group task?Answer: Assessing each member’s individual contribution.

Based on Psychology 2e by Rose M. Spielman, William J. Jenkins, Marilyn D. Lovett (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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