Factors that influence obedience and conformity | Behavior | MCAT | Khan Academy

Summary

This video explores the factors influencing conformity and obedience, highlighting both external and internal influences. Key external factors include group size, presence of supporters, group cohesion, and perceived observation. Internal factors involve prior commitments and feelings of insecurity. The video also delves into obedience, discussing authority proximity, legitimacy, and victim distance. Importantly, it notes that no specific personality type is more prone to conform or obey, with cultural context and mood playing significant roles. Understanding these dynamics can empower individuals to recognize and resist undue influences in their social interactions.

Takeaways

• 😀 Group size plays a crucial role in conformity, with individuals more likely to conform in groups of three to five.
• 😀 Unanimity within a group increases the likelihood of conformity; when everyone agrees, individuals are more inclined to follow suit.
• 😀 The presence of a supporter or defector in a group can significantly reduce conformity, demonstrating the power of dissent.
• 😀 Individuals are more likely to conform to groups they admire or perceive as having higher status.
• 😀 Group cohesion influences conformity; a lack of connection with a group reduces the need to conform.
• 😀 Beliefs about being observed can impact conformity; when individuals think their behavior is not being judged, they are less likely to conform.
• 😀 Prior commitments can affect conformity; if individuals make a commitment to a group message, they are less likely to go against it later.
• 😀 Obedience is influenced by the closeness and legitimacy of authority figures; people are more likely to obey known and respected authorities.
• 😀 Physical proximity to authority figures increases obedience, as seen in the Milgram study.
• 😀 Mood and social status can influence conformity and obedience; those having a rough day or who hold lower social power are more likely to conform.

Q & A

What factors influence an individual's likelihood to conform to group norms?

Factors influencing conformity include group size (most likely in groups of three to five), group unanimity, admiration for group status, group cohesion, observational factors, public response anticipation, and prior commitments.

How does group size affect conformity according to the Asch line study?

The Asch line study suggests that people are more likely to conform in groups of three to five. When a supporter is present, conformity rates can drop significantly.

What role does the presence of a defector play in conformity?

The presence of even one defector can significantly decrease conformity, as shown in the Asch study, where compliance dropped from 37% to 5% when a supporter provided the correct answer.

How does group cohesion affect conformity levels?

When individuals feel connected to a group, they are less likely to conform to its norms. Conversely, a lack of connection decreases the need to align with group behavior.

What is the difference between conformity and obedience?

Conformity involves changing one's behavior or thoughts to align with group norms, while obedience refers to following orders from an authority figure without questioning them.

What factors influence obedience to authority?

Obedience is influenced by the proximity to the authority figure, the legitimacy of that authority, institutional authority, victim distance, depersonalization, and the presence of models of defiance.

How does victim distance affect obedience in a study setting?

In the Milgram study, participants were less likely to obey commands when they could see the victim, indicating that physical distance can decrease compliance with harmful orders.

Do individual personality traits determine susceptibility to conformity or obedience?

No specific personality traits predict susceptibility to conformity or obedience. However, mood, social status, and cultural background can significantly influence these behaviors.

How do individualistic cultures differ from collectivist cultures in terms of conformity?

Individuals from collectivist cultures, which prioritize group achievement, are generally more likely to conform than those from individualistic cultures, which emphasize personal achievement.

What personal insights can individuals gain from understanding conformity and obedience?

Being aware of the factors that influence conformity and obedience can empower individuals to make conscious choices and resist undue pressure, promoting critical thinking and personal integrity.