As we saw in the Asch conformity experiments, there is a strong tendency for people to conform to social norms. Discuss some of the reasons why conformity to social norms has such a powerful effect and present some thoughts on possible negative and positive outcomes of this well-established phenomenon. Include in your discussion some considerations about how humanity may reduce negative outcomes associated with social conformity. Reminder: Two intext citations and accompanying reference in proper APA format are required. References must be limited to either the lecture or course material found in the Additional Materials folder. (The additional materials folder include: Asch Study Zimbardo Study Milgram Experiment Animated Description of Milgram Study More Shocking Results: New Research Partially Replicating Milgram Replicating Milgram (2006))
Question
As we saw in the Asch conformity experiments, there is a strong tendency for people to conform to social norms. Discuss some of the reasons why conformity to social norms has such a powerful effect and present some thoughts on possible negative and positive outcomes of this well-established phenomenon. Include in your discussion some considerations about how humanity may reduce negative outcomes associated with social conformity. Reminder: Two intext citations and accompanying reference in proper APA format are required. References must be limited to either the lecture or course material found in the Additional Materials folder. (The additional materials folder include: Asch Study Zimbardo Study Milgram Experiment Animated Description of Milgram Study More Shocking Results: New Research Partially Replicating Milgram Replicating Milgram (2006))
Solution
The powerful effect of conformity to social norms can be attributed to several reasons. Firstly, the desire to fit in and be accepted by others is a fundamental human need (Asch, 1951). This need can often override our personal beliefs and values, leading us to conform to the norms of the group. Secondly, conformity can also be a result of informational social influence, where we look to others for guidance in situations where the correct behavior is unclear (Zimbardo, 1971).
The outcomes of conformity can be both positive and negative. On the positive side, conformity can promote social harmony and cohesion, as it encourages individuals to behave in a manner that is acceptable to the group. It can also facilitate cooperation and coordination in group activities. On the negative side, excessive conformity can stifle individuality and creativity, and can lead to the perpetuation of harmful behaviors and attitudes, as seen in the Milgram experiment (Milgram, 1963).
To reduce the negative outcomes associated with social conformity, it is important to promote critical thinking and individual decision-making. Encouraging diversity and tolerance can also help to create an environment where individuals feel free to express their own opinions and beliefs, without fear of rejection or ostracism.
References: Asch, S. E. (1951). Effects of group pressure upon the modification and distortion of judgments. In H. Guetzkow (ed.) Groups, leadership and men. Pittsburgh, PA: Carnegie Press.
Milgram, S. (1963). Behavioral study of obedience. Journal of Abnormal and Social Psychology, 67, 371-378.
Zimbardo, P. G. (1971). The power and pathology of imprisonment. Congressional Record. (Serial No. 15, October 25, 1971). Hearings before Subcommittee No. 3, of the Committee on the Judiciary, House of Representatives, 92nd Congress, 1st Session on Corrections, Part II, Prisons, Prison Reform and Prisoner's Rights: California. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office.
Similar Questions
Conformity is defined as: Aggressive behavior directed towards others The tendency to conform to group norms and expectations Seeking out social interactions to fulfill personal needs Rejecting social norms and expectations
Which of the following is information that supports the idea that the Asch Line studies are evidence of normative social influence.Question 4AnswerPeople were more likely to conform if other people could hear their responses.Teenagers were more likely to conform than adults.76% of participants went along with the wrong answer at least once.People were more likely to conform if they had no idea what the correct answer was.Conformity in judgments only happened for lines that were very close together.
In Solomon Asch’s studies on conformity, some of the experimental participants were affected by normative social influence, meaning they were influenced by:A.a desire to achieve the approval of others.B.a willingness to accept other’s opinions.C.an uncertainty about their own perceptions.D.an unwavering commitment to their own perceptions.
Sherif's study of individuals watching a pinpoint of light indicated thata.people conform when they face ambiguous situations.b.social influence is strongest among friends rather than strangers.c.group behavior can be predicted from individual behavior.d.Americans conform less than do persons born in other countries.
Which of the following is true of the findings made by Asch on conformity?Multiple ChoiceThe more attractive a group appears to its members, the lower is its ability to produce conformity.Conformity is considerably higher when people must respond privately than it is when they can do so publicly.There is less chance for conformity when an individual is less competent at a task than others in a group.Having just one person present who shares the minority point of view is sufficient to reduce conformity pressures.
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