Social Psychology Outline
J. Cognitive Dissonance Theory
1. Individuals act to reduce the discomfort (dissonance) they feel
when two of their thoughts (cognitions) clash
a. Tend to bring attitudes into line with actions to relieve
tensions
2. Brain regions that are activated when one feels negative arousal are
activated when one experiences cognitive dissonance
K. Conformity and Obedience
1. Chameleon effect
a. Humans are natural mimics, unconsciously imitating
others’ expressions, postures, and voice tones
b. Automatic mimicry helps people empathize and feel
what others feel
c. The more the mimicry, greater the empathy
- Increases the individual’s likability
L. Group Pressure and Conformity
1. People are more likely to conform when they:
a. Are made to feel incompetent or insecure
b. Are in a group with at least three people
c. Are in a group in which everyone else agrees
d. Admire the group’s status and attractiveness
e. Have not already committed themselves to any
response
f. Know that others in the group will observe their
behavior
g. Are from a culture that strongly encourages respect
for social standards
M. Types of Social Influence
1. Normative social influence
a. Results from a person’s desire to gain approval or
avoid disapproval
2. Informational social influence
a. Results from a person’s willingness to accept others’
opinions about reality
J. Cognitive Dissonance Theory
1. Individuals act to reduce the discomfort (dissonance) they feel
when two of their thoughts (cognitions) clash
a. Tend to bring attitudes into line with actions to relieve
tensions
2. Brain regions that are activated when one feels negative arousal are
activated when one experiences cognitive dissonance
K. Conformity and Obedience
1. Chameleon effect
a. Humans are natural mimics, unconsciously imitating
others’ expressions, postures, and voice tones
b. Automatic mimicry helps people empathize and feel
what others feel
c. The more the mimicry, greater the empathy
- Increases the individual’s likability
L. Group Pressure and Conformity
1. People are more likely to conform when they:
a. Are made to feel incompetent or insecure
b. Are in a group with at least three people
c. Are in a group in which everyone else agrees
d. Admire the group’s status and attractiveness
e. Have not already committed themselves to any
response
f. Know that others in the group will observe their
behavior
g. Are from a culture that strongly encourages respect
for social standards
M. Types of Social Influence
1. Normative social influence
a. Results from a person’s desire to gain approval or
avoid disapproval
2. Informational social influence
a. Results from a person’s willingness to accept others’
opinions about reality
