Identify and explain two social factors that affect conformity to majority influence.

Asch's extensive studies found a number of factors affecting conformity rates. One was task difficulty. As the task gets more difficult, with the lines in Asch's study getting closer together in size, people grow less sure of if they are correct and look to others for guidance. Essentially, difficult tasks increase informational social influence. So the more difficult a task is, the more people will conform to the group.
Another factor is anonymity. When everyone gives answers anonymously it avoids social judgement, allowing more freedom to give answers that you truly believe in. In other words, it frees you from declarative social influence as there is no longer a need to fulfill the expectations of others. Therefore anonymity often greatly reduces conformity levels.

RB
Answered by Rose B. Psychology tutor

8575 Views

See similar Psychology GCSE tutors

Related Psychology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between the independent and dependent variables.


How could the ability to recall information be affected by interference? Give examples


Outline one difference in animal and human communication. Use an example to explain your answer. (3 marks)


Outline the types of conditioning covered in learning theories.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning