Psychology Degree Social Influence and Behavior 2

Question 1

In Milgram's obedience experiments, what factor most significantly reduced participants' willingness to deliver shocks?

Accepted Answer

Adding a second confederate who refused

Answer

When a peer confederate refused to continue, compliance dropped dramatically because social support undermined the authority's power.

Question 2

The 'foot-in-the-door' technique works primarily because of which psychological principle?

Accepted Answer

Commitment and consistency

Answer

People comply with larger requests after agreeing to small ones because they want to remain consistent with their self-image as helpful.

Question 3

Which concept describes the tendency for individuals to exert less effort when working in a group than when working alone?

Accepted Answer

Social loafing

Answer

Social loafing occurs when individual contributions are not identifiable, reducing personal accountability.

Question 4

A person publicly agrees with a group's opinion but privately disagrees. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Compliance

Answer

Compliance involves outward conformity without private acceptance, driven by desire to avoid conflict or gain rewards.

Question 5

According to Moscovici's research, minority influence is most effective when the minority is:

Accepted Answer

Consistent and persistent

Answer

Consistent and unwavering minority positions signal confidence and cause majority members to reconsider their views.

Psychology Degree Practice Test