Question 1

Which source of group influence explains why we do not cut in line,interrupt others,or invade people's personal space? In what ways does this source of influence differ from the others?

Accepted Answer

The source of group influence that explains why we do not cut in line, interrupt others, or invade people's personal space is primarily social norms. Social norms are the unwritten rules of behavior that are considered acceptable in a group or society. They guide our interactions and help maintain order and predictability in social situations. These norms are learned through socialization processes and are reinforced by the reactions of others to our behavior.

Social norms differ from other sources of group influence in several ways:

1. Implicit Understanding: Unlike formal laws or rules, social norms are often not explicitly stated, yet they are widely understood and followed by members of the society or group.

2. Internalization: Social norms are internalized by individuals, which means that adherence to these norms often occurs without external enforcement. People follow these norms because they want to fit in, be accepted, and avoid social sanctions.

3. Informal Enforcement: While laws have formal penalties, social norms are enforced informally through social sanctions such as disapproval, ridicule, ostracism, or expressions of disappointment. The fear of these social sanctions can be a powerful motivator for conforming to norms.

4. Flexibility: Social norms can be more flexible than formal rules or laws. They can change over time and can vary between different cultures, societies, and social groups.

5. Group Identity: Adhering to social norms can be a way to express membership and identity within a particular group. By following the norms, individuals signal that they are part of the group and understand its values and expectations.

In summary, social norms are a key source of group influence that governs behaviors such as not cutting in line, not interrupting others, and respecting personal space. They are distinct from other sources of influence due to their implicit nature, internalization by individuals, informal enforcement mechanisms, flexibility, and role in group identity formation.

Question 2

How does modifying jury size affect a jury's decision? Identify at least processes that may change when the jury's size is change from 12 to a smaller or larger size.

Accepted Answer

Modifying jury size can have a significant impact on a jury's decision-making process. When the jury's size is changed from 12 to a smaller or larger size, several processes may change.

Firstly, a smaller jury size may lead to a more cohesive decision-making process. With fewer members, it may be easier for the jury to reach a consensus and come to a decision more quickly. However, a smaller jury size may also increase the likelihood of individual biases having a greater impact on the overall decision.

Conversely, a larger jury size may lead to a more diverse range of perspectives and opinions. This can be beneficial in ensuring a more thorough examination of the evidence and a more balanced decision. However, a larger jury size may also make it more challenging to reach a unanimous decision, potentially leading to a hung jury.

Additionally, modifying jury size can also impact the dynamics of deliberation. In a smaller jury, each member may have a more significant influence on the overall decision, while in a larger jury, certain members may have a more dominant presence.

Overall, modifying jury size can affect the decision-making process by influencing the speed of decision-making, the impact of individual biases, the diversity of perspectives, and the dynamics of deliberation. It is important for legal systems to consider these potential effects when determining the appropriate jury size for a given case.

Question 3

Draw on Schachter's study of people's reactions to deviation to explain what happens in a group when one of the members disagrees with the others.

Accepted Answer

Schachter's study on people's reactions to deviation can help us understand what happens in a group when one member disagrees with the others. According to Schachter, when individuals deviate from the group norm, they are often met with discomfort, rejection, or even hostility from the rest of the group. This is because the deviant member threatens the group's cohesion and stability, and the group may feel the need to exert pressure on the deviant member to conform.

When one member disagrees with the others in a group, a similar dynamic may occur. The rest of the group may feel uncomfortable or threatened by the dissenting opinion, and may try to pressure the dissenting member to conform to the group's viewpoint. This pressure can take the form of persuasion, ridicule, or even exclusion from the group.

Additionally, Schachter's study also found that individuals who deviate from the group norm may experience feelings of anxiety and insecurity, as they are going against the social pressure to conform. Similarly, a member who disagrees with the group may feel isolated or anxious about their differing opinion, especially if the group is particularly cohesive or if the dissenting opinion challenges deeply held beliefs.

In conclusion, Schachter's study helps us understand that when one member disagrees with the others in a group, there can be a strong pressure to conform and a potential for feelings of discomfort and rejection. It is important for groups to recognize and respect differing opinions in order to foster a healthy and inclusive environment.

Question 4

Summarize the methods used and results obtained by Asch in his studies of conformity.

Accepted Answer

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Question 5

In the play and movie Twelve Angry Men,one juror persuades all the others to change their verdicts.Draw on studies of social influence to explain how juries make decisions-and when an outcome like that described in Twelve Angry Men is likely to occur.

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Question 6

Is the pressure to conform the same or different in online groups? What do researchers believe is behind these similarities or differences?

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Question 7

Why is a unanimous majority so influential?

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Question 8

Describe the Crutchfield apparatus.What was the purpose behind its use? How does it relate to Asch's conformity studies?

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Question 9

Using the concept of idiosyncrasy credits,explain how groups would react to a a)deviant: b)leader,c)older member,and d)new member.

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Question 10

You know that Edgar disagrees with your decision to support plan A over plan B,and you plan to meet with him and several other members of the work team to discuss the plans.How will you structure the meeting to maximize the chances that Edgar with give in to your demands?

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Question 11

Social influence emanates from both the majority and the minority.

Accepted Answer

Social influence can come from both the majority and the minority. In fact, studies have shown that minority influence can be particularly powerful, as it challenges established norms and can ultimately lead to social change.

Question 12

Illustrate,through a hypothetical example,these four tendencies documented by Latané and his colleagues in their studies of social impact: consolidation,clustering,correlation,and continuing diversity.

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Question 13

Drawing on studies of cultural factors,eras,gender,and personality,explain your personal tendency to conform or to remain independent.

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Question 14

Compare and contrast implicit,informational,normative,and interpersonal influence,and give an example of each.

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Question 15

How does the size of a group affect members' willingness to help? Name three factors that influence members' decision to help.What advice do you suggest to remedy the situation?

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Question 16

Harry is meeting with his group and all the other members share an opinion that he does not agree with.Harry argues his position and the group tries to change his mind.Name at least four possible different ways in which Harry can react to the group's pressure.

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Question 17

Explain the dual process theory of influence.How does it relate to informational influence? Provide two different examples using dual process theories of influence.

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Question 18

Why do groups and the members of groups change their opinions over time?

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Question 19

Summarize the methods used and the results obtained by Moscovici in his studies of minority influence.

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Question 20

Summarize the methods used-and the results obtained-by Langer in her study of conformity and photocopying.

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Quiz 7: Influence