1956 - Asch's Study (AO1 & AO3)

KEY STUDY (AO1): Asch (1956)

123 male US undergraduates - one real, others actors - task: match standard line to correct comparison line - real participant always second to last.

• 12 Critical trials = 33% average conformity rate
• 6+ Critical trials = 50% conformed
• 25% NEVER conformed

Variables affecting conformity (AO1):

• Group Size - two confederates in group = 10% increase in conformity. 15 confederates = no increase in conformity.

• Unanimity of Majority - When all confederates = same incorrect response, conformity was as high as 33%. When one = correct, conformity rates dropped to 5.5%

• Task Difficulty - Task difficulty increases/correct answer less obvious = conformity increases.
  • Lucas et al (2006)…