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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.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

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.

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.

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.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

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.

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.

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.

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.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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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.

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.

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.

Rituals, Not Beliefs, Provide Social Glue For Religious Communities

Dr. Daniel B. Lee's research suggests that rituals, not common beliefs, provide social glue for religious communities. This is evident in the Weaverland Mennonites' case study, where symbols and rituals sustain unity despite individual members having fluid and unstructured religious beliefs.

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.