Lesson 2: Explanations for conformity

Question 1

Who developed the two-process theory for ISI and NSI?

Answer 1

Deutsch and Gerard (1955)

Question 2

What is ISI?

Answer 2

Informational social influence: when a person conforms due to the need to be right - they are unsure of the correct answer or how to behave, so they look to others for information.

Question 3

What type of conformity is ISI likely to lead to?

Answer 3

Internalisation

Question 4

What is NSI?

Answer 4

Normative Social Influence: when a person conforms due to the need to be liked - they look to others and copy their behaviour in order to fit in.

Question 5

What type of conformity does NSI lead to?

Answer 5

Compliance

Question 6

What are the strengths of ISI and NSI?

Answer 6

+ There is research support for both ISI and NSI - Lucas et al (2006) - maths study, and Asch (1951) - line study

Question 7

What are the weaknesses of ISI and NSI?

Answer 7

• There are individual differences in NSI and ISI - some individuals are more concerned about being liked (nAffiliators). McGhee and Teevan (1967), student study for NSI, Asch (1955), line study for ISI
• ISI and NSI may work together in explaining conformity rather than separately - Asch (1955)
• Many supporting studies are lab studies and therefore lack ecological validity