Explanations of Resistance to Social Influence (AQA A Level Psychology)

Outline two explanations of resistance to social influence.

A researcher wanted to investigate whether there was a relationship between locus of control and resistance to social influence. Before the investigation began, he devised a questionnaire to measure locus of control.

To assess the questionnaire’s validity, the researcher gave it to 30 participants and recorded the results. He then gave the same 30 participants an established questionnaire measuring locus of control. The researcher found a weak positive correlation between the two sets of results, suggesting that his questionnaire had low validity.

Explain how the validity of the researcher’s questionnaire could be improved.

A teacher was absent and left work for students to complete during the lesson. Some students in the class did not do the work their teacher had left for them.

Use one possible explanation of resistance to social influence to explain why this happened.

Outline and evaluate locus of control as an explanation for resistance to social influence.

Two psychology students were discussing the topic of social influence.

"I find it fascinating how some people are able to resist social influence," said Jack. "It must be the result of having a confident personality."

"I disagree," replied Sarah. "I think resisting social influence depends much more on the presence of others."

Discuss two explanations of resistance to social influence. As part of your discussion, refer to the views expressed by Jack and Sarah in the conversation above.