Authority Influence Social Behavior Conformity

Your reflections on Chapter 8 do well with synthesizing social influence theories, particularly the works of Asch, Sherif, and Milgram. The idea that we unconsciously conform to social norms is one that hits deeply, as Asch’s research does show how group pressure can override personal judgment. The compliance tactics you mentioned—foot in the door and door in the face—can definitely be seen in everyday life: I see them all the time in fact. They are widely used in marketing and persuasion, often without our conscious awareness—but, yes, they are there. Milgram’s findings about obedience to authority are, interestingly, both alarming and thought-provoking. What should we make of them? I think they reveal the ethical dilemmas in psychology. If you really want to test people, you kind of might have to lead them on at times. Have you noticed any personal experiences where these principles have shaped your behavior?

Your discussion of social influence is insightful. I liked how you focused on Sherif’s study of norm formation. The persistence of private acceptance shows that social norms shape us beyond immediate group settings, and I can see that in my own experiences for sure. The Zimbardo prison study is definitely shocking. To me, I see it as indicating the powerful impact of situational forces on behavior. However, the ease with which the students conformed to roles should raise some unsettling ethical questions—like, why do this on impressionable young people? Milgram’s study also shows the extent to which authority can be used to compel people towards taking harmful actions. Do you think modern institutions and workplaces still encourage similar forms of obedience and conformity? I do, a little bit. What safeguards could be used to prevent such extreme behavioral shifts?