Discuss one or more examples of psychological research (theories or studies) on conformity to group norms.

The command term “discuss” requires candidates to offer a considered review of one or more examples of psychological research (theories or studies) on conformity.

Theories may include, but are not limited to:
• informational/normative social influence theory
• social comparison theory
• bystander effect
• groupthink

Studies may include, but are not limited to:
• Asch (1951, 1952, 1956) testing conformity under non-ambiguous conditions
• Sherif (1935) testing conformity with autokinetic effect illusion
• Crutchfield (1955) on the influence of intellectual competence and personality
• Moscovici et al. (1969, 1976, 1985) on minority influence
• Berry (1967) on the role of cultural dimensions
• Kagitcibasi (1984) on cultural norms and conformity
• Bond and Smith (1996) on changes over time and cross-cultural differences.

Discussion may include, but is not limited to:
• methodological, cultural, ethical and gender considerations
• contrary explanations and/or findings
• application of the theory and/or empirical findings.

If research addressing obedience, rather than conformity, is discussed, no marks should be awarded for this discussion.

Responses that focus on one example of research must include other theories and/or studies in the discussion in order to be awarded marks in the top markband for criterion A.