What method did Asch use in his 1951 conformity experiment?

What method did Asch use in his 1951 conformity experiment?

• A. A sample of 123 male university students with a mix of varying groups
• B. A sample of participants watching recorded reactions
• C. A sample of 123 female students observing peers
• D. A sample of individuals working in isolation

Answer: (A)

The method used by Asch in his 1951 conformity experiment involved a sample of 123 male university students. This choice is accurate as Asch aimed to investigate the influence of group pressure on individual judgment and conformity. The participants were placed in groups with confederates who intentionally gave incorrect answers to see if the individual would conform to the group's incorrect responses or rely on their own judgment. The use of male university students was essential for Asch's research as it allowed him to explore the dynamics of conformity within a specific demographic, which contributed to understanding social influence in that context. The experimental design relied heavily on the interactions among group members, illustrating how individuals can be swayed by the opinions and behaviors of those around them. In contrast, other options do not accurately represent Asch's methodology. Watching recorded reactions or having isolated individuals would not effectively capture the essence of conformity, as the key element is the presence of other individuals influencing the subject's answers. Similarly, a sample consisting solely of female students changes the demographic focus and could alter the results, which would not align with Asch’s original experimental setup.

The method used by Asch in his 1951 conformity experiment involved a sample of 123 male university students. This choice is accurate as Asch aimed to investigate the influence of group pressure on individual judgment and conformity. The participants were placed in groups with confederates who intentionally gave incorrect answers to see if the individual would conform to the group's incorrect responses or rely on their own judgment.

The use of male university students was essential for Asch's research as it allowed him to explore the dynamics of conformity within a specific demographic, which contributed to understanding social influence in that context. The experimental design relied heavily on the interactions among group members, illustrating how individuals can be swayed by the opinions and behaviors of those around them.

In contrast, other options do not accurately represent Asch's methodology. Watching recorded reactions or having isolated individuals would not effectively capture the essence of conformity, as the key element is the presence of other individuals influencing the subject's answers. Similarly, a sample consisting solely of female students changes the demographic focus and could alter the results, which would not align with Asch’s original experimental setup.