Social Support AO3

Question 1

Strength of Social Support (Research Support - Allen & Levine)

Answer 1

Allen & Levine (1971) found that social support reduced conformity even when the dissenter had poor eyesight (thick glasses), suggesting that social support works even if the supporter is not highly credible.

Question 2

Strength of Social Support (Research Support - Milgram’s Variation)

Answer 2

In a variation of Milgram’s obedience study, when two disobedient confederates were present, obedience dropped from 65% to 10%, demonstrating the power of social support in resisting authority.

Question 3

Weakness of Social Support (Lacks Long-Term Impact)

Answer 3

The effect of social support may be temporary. If the dissenter conforms again, the individual may also return to conforming, showing that social support can be fragile.

Question 4

Weakness of Social Support (Cultural Differences)

Answer 4

Social support may not be equally effective in all cultures. Collectivist cultures (e.g., China) value group harmony and may be less influenced by dissenters than individualistic cultures (e.g., the UK).