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Scientists identify link between size of brain region and conformity

Scientists have discovered a specific brain region associated with social conformity, which influences individuals' tendency to align their opinions with those of others. The lateral orbitofrontal cortex plays a key role in recognizing cues of social conflict, prompting subjects to update their opinions accordingly.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 20, 2012

Peer pressure in preschool children

Researchers found that four-year-olds conformed their public judgment of a situation to the majority of peers despite better knowledge. This conformity plays a crucial role in acquiring group-specific behavior. In the study, only 40% of children conformed at least once, indicating some level of peer pressure on young minds.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalChild Development·DateOct 25, 2011

Study finds conformity does not equal cooperation

A study by academics at UEA found that people who do not conform are most likely to work together for the public good, while conforming to social norms can actually make people less likely to co-operate. Non-conformists were more willing to invest in a joint project when praised for their investment.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateAug 1, 2011
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Early male friendship as a precursor to substance abuse in girls

A new study suggests that early male friendships are a precursor to substance abuse problems in girls, who tend to initiate mixed-gender friendships earlier and at a faster pace than boys. This transition is associated with increased risk of maladjustment and substance use during late adolescence.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Research on Adolescence·DateMar 10, 2011

A man with attitude

Research by Dr. Scott Keiller found that narcissistic men exhibit a strong link to hostility toward heterosexual women, whereas attitudes toward lesbian women are favorable. Men's narcissism was also linked to a softer reaction towards gay men.

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateJul 28, 2010
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Brain mechanisms of social conformity

A study published in Neuron found that conflict with the majority opinion triggers a neural response in the brain's error-monitoring system, leading to long-term conforming adjustments. This mechanism is based on reinforcement learning and reinforces social conformity by signaling the most fundamental social mistake.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateJan 14, 2009

The freedom of power

New research reveals that power protects people from influence, enabling them to generate creative ideas and express their underlying attitudes. High-power individuals are more likely to resist conformity pressure and counter opposing views, suggesting that power can be a catalyst for change rather than corruption.

SourceManning Selvage & Lee·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateDec 1, 2008

Iowa State study finds mom's beliefs may impact their kids' alcohol use

A new Iowa State University study found that mothers' self-fulfilling effects on their children's alcohol use are rooted in the power of positive thinking and self-verification theory. The research suggests that if moms help their teens develop a positive self-view, it can limit their chances of using alcohol.

SourceIowa State University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateSep 18, 2008

Social psychology can be used to understand nuclear restraint

A new study in International Studies Review uses social psychology to understand Japan's nuclear restraint, finding that persuasion, identification, and conformity are key factors. The research suggests that Japan's faith in the NPT is rooted in its desire to be seen as a successful state, rather than a deterrent.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Studies Review·DateSep 4, 2008
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Eastern independence, Western conformity?

Researchers used a study on pen choice to investigate Japanese and American cultural differences. Contrary to previous stereotypes, the findings suggest that cultural differences are not due to inherent preferences, but rather how individuals interpret ambiguous situations.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 13, 2008

New study shows that variety is overrated, especially in our choices for others

A study found that people tend to choose more varied snacks for their partners than for themselves, even when justifying choices. The authors attribute this tendency to a desire for conformity and a focus on consumptions rather than activities, but a 'de-focusing' task reduced variety in snack selection.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 30, 2006

Cultural norms not unique to human societies

Researchers found chimpanzees learn by observation and adopt traditions through ape-to-ape transmission. Chimpanzee groups conform to established norms, even when alternative methods exist, suggesting an ancient origin for cultural conformity in non-human primates.

SourceEmory University Health Sciences Center·JournalNature·DateAug 21, 2005

Chimpanzees are social conformists

Researchers found that chimpanzees learn and adopt specific techniques to solve problems, demonstrating a form of culture. The study shows that chimpanzees have a tendency to conform to their group's norms, even when they know alternative methods exist.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·JournalNature·DateAug 21, 2005

Could Abu Ghraib happen again?

Researchers argue that factors like peer pressure, superiors' expectations, and social interactions play a significant role in shaping behavior, not just individual psychology. Fisk suggests that preventing abuse requires understanding these conditions and promoting positive contact between groups.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateNov 25, 2004
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