Resisting Conformity

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What was the purpose of the Asch experiments?

To study conformity and how social forces shape our actions and beliefs.

What percentage of subjects in the Asch experiments conformed at least once?

Approximately 75%.

Why did the subject in the conformity experiment go along with the wrong answers?

She thought there was something going on and decided to say what everyone else said.

What are some reasons why people conform?

Desire to fit in, peer pressure, social lubrication, fear of looking stupid, and politeness. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Asch experiment?

The purpose of the Asch experiment is to test conformity and whether or not a person will say something incorrect simply because everyone else is. Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct answer to the task in the experiment?

The correct answer to the task in the experiment is three. Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential dilemma faced by the real participant in the experiment?

The potential dilemma faced by the real participant in the experiment is whether to stick out and say what they saw or to fit in because it's easier or less uncomfortable. Signup and view all the answers

How does the experiment gain the trust of the subject?

The experiment gains the trust of the subject by having the actors say the correct answer initially. Signup and view all the answers

What was the original number of witnesses who heard Kitty Genovese's screams but did nothing to help?

At least 38 Signup and view all the answers

How many witnesses could have helped and didn't?

As few as two Signup and view all the answers

Why did the police commissioner lie about the number of witnesses?

To cover up why it took the police so long to arrive at the scene Signup and view all the answers

What psychological phenomenon took place as the story spread?

Information cascade Signup and view all the answers

What is the phenomenon called when a sober person begins to manifest the same physical symptoms as someone under the influence of drugs?

contact high Signup and view all the answers

What does the study in the text aim to investigate?

the way that groups conform together Signup and view all the answers

What physical manifestations did the subjects in the study experience?

sensations near the eye and nose area, increased brightness, discomfort when looking at lights Signup and view all the answers

Even after learning that the drug was fake, why did the subjects continue to believe in their manifested symptoms?

the desire to conform is strong Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using canned laughter in sitcoms?

To encourage viewers to laugh along, even when a joke might not be that funny. Signup and view all the answers

What is cognitive dissonance?

The process of mental gymnastics when someone tries to come to terms with their behavior that goes against their beliefs or values. Signup and view all the answers