Social Influence is a core part of A-Level Psychology. Revise the key concepts and common mistakes below, then lock them in with the free games.
ConformityYielding to real or imagined group pressure.
CompliancePublic agreement without private change of belief.
IdentificationConforming to a group's role we value, only while a member.
InternalisationPublic and private acceptance of group beliefs as one's own.
NSINormative social influence — conforming to be liked or accepted.
ISIInformational social influence — conforming because others seem to know more.
Minority InfluenceWhen a small group influences the beliefs of the majority.
ConsistencyRepeating the same message over time and between members.
CommitmentShowing dedication, often via personal sacrifice — the augmentation principle.
FlexibilityAdapting position without abandoning core view.
Snowball EffectGradual conversion of majority members until a tipping point.
Social CryptomnesiaSociety remembers the change but forgets the minority who caused it.
ObedienceFollowing a direct order from a perceived authority figure.
Agentic StateActing as an agent for authority, feeling no personal responsibility.
Questions where students often pick the tempting wrong answer — make sure you know the right one: