Normative Social Influence Flashcards

Study Notes

Normative social influence involves conforming to fit in and be liked by a group.
It can manifest in various social behaviors such as dress sense, music preferences, and substance use.

Zimbardo Study

Zimbardo conducted an experiment simulating a prison environment with participants assigned as guards and prisoners.
The guards exhibited aggressive and abusive behavior, particularly during nighttime hours.

Results of Zimbardo

Prisoners conformed to avoid punishment, knowing rebellion would lead to collective repercussions.
Guards felt pressure to perform cruelty to fit in, fearing rejection if they did not conform to group behavior.

Strengths of Zimbardo

The study provided a realistic and detailed observation of participants' behavior.
Constant video surveillance allowed for comprehensive documentation of interactions.

Weaknesses of Zimbardo

Lacked ecological validity, as the artificial setting may not reflect real-life situations.
Ethical guidelines were breached, raising concerns about participant welfare.

Nolan et al. Study

Examined the environmentally friendly behaviors of 810 Californians through field experiments and questionnaires.
Participants claimed they were not influenced by peer actions.

Results of Nolan et al.

Findings contradicted participants' beliefs; they were significantly affected by the behaviors of others around them.

Strengths of Nolan

Large sample size enhances generalizability of results.
High ecological validity due to the study's focus on real-life situations and behaviors.

Weaknesses of Nolan

Limited generalizability due to the study being concentrated in a specific geographic area.

Description

Explore the concept of normative social influence through a series of flashcards. This quiz covers definitions, examples, and notable studies like the Zimbardo experiment. Test your understanding of how social conformity shapes behavior in group settings.