Asch's Line Variation Study

Question 1

What was the aim of Asch’s study?

Answer 1

To investigate the degree to which individuals would conform to a majority who gave obviously wrong answers.

Question 2

Asch’s Line Study is an example of what type of experiment?

Answer 2

Lab experiment.

Question 3

Give an advantage of lab experiments.

Answer 3

+Reliable and replicable.

+Strict control over extraneous variables, can establish cause and effect.

Question 4

Give a disadvantage of lab experiments.

Answer 4

They have low ecological validity and low population validity.

Question 5

What was Asch’s method?

Answer 5

-123 males took part in a lab experiment.
-Conducted the line test (correct answer was obvious).
-All participants apart from one were confederates, who gave obviously wrong answers.

Question 6

What were the results of Asch’s study?

Answer 6

-75% conformed to at least one wrong answer.
-25% never gave a wrong answer.

Question 7

What did Asch conclude from his research?

Answer 7

-Participants said they conformed to avoid rejection but privately trusted their own judgement.
-They were motivated by NSI.

Question 8

What were the 3 variables affecting conformity in Asch’s study?

Answer 8

1. Task difficulty
2. Group Size
   3.Unanimity

Question 9

Explain task difficulty.

Answer 9

-Made the lines more similar, correct answer was less obvious.
-Participants were more likely to conform to the wrong answer.
-ISI plays a greater role.

Question 10

Explain group size.

Answer 10

Majority of size 3 is a sufficient number for a maximum influence on conformity,

Question 11

Explain unanimity.

Answer 11

-Breaking the groups unanimity was a major factor in conformity reduction.
-Presence of a dissenter enables the participant to disagree with the majority.

Question 12

Evaluate Asch’s Line Study.

Answer 12

+Asch’s line study is supporting evidence. 37% conformity rate to wrong answers, with 75% of pps conforming to at least one wrong answer.

+Strength of NSI, as it has practical applications e.g. stopping people smoking.

+Evidence to support ISI as an explanation of conformity.
Findings showed that there was a greater conformity to incorrect answers with the more difficult questions. This supports the idea that people conform where they don’t know the answer, demonstrating the desire to be right.