GCSE Psychology: Social Influence Revision

Social Influence is a core part of GCSE Psychology. Revise the key concepts and common mistakes below, then lock them in with the free games.

Key concepts

ConformityChanging behaviour to match a group.

ObedienceFollowing a direct order from an authority.

Normative influenceConforming to be liked or fit.

Informational influenceConforming because others seem to know more.

CompliancePublic agreement without private change.

InternalisationPublic and private acceptance of group view.

Asch's line study1951 conformity test using line judgements.

Milgram's study1963 obedience test using fake electric shocks.

Bystander effectPeople help less when others are present.

Diffusion of responsibilitySharing blame so no individual acts.

Kitty Genovese1964 case sparking bystander research.

ConfederateActor working with the researcher.

Ethical issuesConcerns about harm, consent and deception.

Ecological validityExtent results apply outside the lab.

Common mistakes to avoid

Questions where students often pick the tempting wrong answer — make sure you know the right one:

Do most people resist group pressure to conform?✗ Yes, most people stay fully independent. ✓ No — studies show many people conform or obey authority.

What did Milgram's study show about obedience?✗ Almost no one obeyed the experimenter. ✓ Ordinary people often obey authority figures, even against their conscience.

Practise Social Influence — free games

Test yourself with these quick revision games for this topic:

▶ Two Truths, One Lie ▶ Reveal Race ▶ Connections Grid ▶ Falling Words ▶ Word Web

See all 17 games in the Subjects Arcade →

Social Influence

Key concepts

Common mistakes to avoid

Practise Social Influence — free games

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