In Solomon Asch's classic conformity experiments, participants were asked to match the length of a line with one of three comparison lines. Unbeknownst to the true participant, the other individuals in the group were confederates who intentionally gave incorrect answers on several trials. What was the primary finding of these experiments regarding individual behavior in a group setting?
Show answer and explanation
The answer
Correct answer: C. Individuals often conform to a majority opinion, even when that opinion is clearly wrong, due to social pressure.
Tested concept: Conformity and obedience (Asch, Milgram)
Explanation
The Asch conformity experiments famously demonstrated that individuals will often conform to a group's incorrect judgment, even when the correct answer is obvious, due to the desire to fit in or avoid disapproval. This directly supports the idea that social pressure can lead to conformity. Option A describes the Milgram obedience experiments. Option B describes group polarization. Option C describes the bystander effect and diffusion of responsibility. These are all distinct social psychology phenomena not primarily demonstrated by Asch's conformity studies.
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