Lecture Script

In today's lecture, we will delve into the fascinating field of social psychology. Social psychology examines how individuals are influenced by the presence and actions of others. One key concept is social norms, which are the unwritten rules that dictate acceptable behavior within a group. For example, in a study conducted by Asch in the 1950s, participants were asked to identify which line matched a standard line's length. When confederates purposely chose the wrong answer, many participants conformed to the group's incorrect response, illustrating the power of social influence.

Key Points

- Social psychology studies how individuals are impacted by others' behaviors.
- Social norms are unwritten rules that define acceptable behavior within a group.
- Asch's study on conformity demonstrates the influence of group pressure on individual behavior.

Sample Answer

Social psychology is a captivating field that explores how people are affected by the actions of those around them. One significant concept within this discipline is social norms, which are the implicit rules guiding acceptable behavior in a group setting. For instance, Asch's experiment in the 1950s revealed how individuals conform to a group's incorrect response due to social pressure. This study underscores the compelling influence that group dynamics can have on individual decision-making. In essence, social psychology sheds light on the intricate ways in which our interactions with others shape our thoughts and behaviors.