Asch Conformity Experiment

This experiment explores how individuals may conform to group pressure, even when they know the group’s answer is incorrect. By recreating scenarios similar to Solomon Asch’s famous studies, participants can observe how social influence impacts decision-making.

1. Recruit a small group of participants, including one real subject and several helpers who are “in on” the experiment.
2. Present a simple task (e.g., comparing line lengths, solving a basic math problem, or identifying a color).
3. Have the helpers all give the same, incorrect answer aloud.
4. When it is the subject’s turn, observe whether they provide the correct answer or conform to the group’s wrong answer.
5. Record responses and note whether the subject conforms or resists social pressure.
6. Repeat with variations (different group sizes, ages, or genders) to see how results change.

The Asch Line Study - Conformity Experiment - Practical Psychology:

Asch Conformity Experiments: The Line Between Independence and Conformit - Academy 4 Social Civics:

📄 The Asch Conformity Experiments: Lesson Plan - U4SC: https://academy4sc.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/39/2020/05/The-Asch-Conformity-Experiments-lesson.pdf

📄 How to Test Conformity With Your Own Psychology Experiment - Kendra Cherry: https://www.verywellmind.com/conformity-experiment-2795661

• Use visual tasks (line lengths, shapes, or colors) instead of math questions.
• Test conformity in casual settings (elevator, classroom, lunchroom).
• Alter the number of confederates to measure how group size affects conformity.
• Compare conformity levels across different age groups or between genders.

• Ensure participants know the experiment may involve mild deception.
• Fully debrief participants afterward, explaining the true purpose of the experiment.
• Avoid any tasks that could cause embarrassment or stress.

• Why do people sometimes go along with a group even when they know the group is wrong? (They may want to avoid conflict, fit in, or doubt their own judgment.)
• How does the size of the group influence conformity? (Larger groups often increase conformity, but after a certain size, the effect plateaus.)
• Are people more likely to conform in public or private settings? (Conformity tends to be stronger in public situations where others can observe responses.)
• What factors might reduce conformity? (Confidence, strong knowledge of the subject, or support from at least one other person who gives the correct answer.)