AP Psychology social psychology flashcards

What is social psychology?

The scientific study of how individuals think, feel, and behave in social contexts.

Define conformity.

The change in behavior or belief to match others, often influenced by group pressure.

True or false: Social loafing occurs when individuals put in less effort in a group.

True, because individuals may feel less accountable in a group setting.

Difference between compliance and obedience.

Compliance is following a request; obedience is following a command from an authority.

Fill the blank: A ______ study examines the effects of group interactions on individual performance.

social psychology

What is cognitive dissonance?

The mental discomfort experienced when holding conflicting beliefs or behaviors.

Define groupthink.

A mode of thinking where the desire for harmony in a decision-making group leads to irrational outcomes.

What is the bystander effect?

The phenomenon where individuals are less likely to help a victim when others are present.

True or false: Stereotypes can lead to prejudiced behaviors.

True, because stereotypes oversimplify and generalize traits to entire groups.

What is the fundamental attribution error?

The tendency to overemphasize personal characteristics and underestimate situational factors in others' behavior.

Define social facilitation.

Improvement in performance when in the presence of others, often on simple tasks.

Which is an example of a social norm?

Shaking hands when meeting someone is a culturally accepted behavior.

Question: What does the term 'ingroup bias' mean?

The tendency to favor one's own group over others.

Difference between prejudice and discrimination.

Prejudice is an attitude; discrimination is an action based on that attitude.

Fill the blank: The ______ theory explains why individuals conform to group norms.

social influence

What is the role of a scapegoat in social psychology?

A scapegoat is a person or group blamed for problems to divert attention from the real issue.

Define prosocial behavior.

Actions intended to benefit others, such as helping or sharing.