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

Topic Questions

116 marks

It is the end of the school day and Freddie is pushing other students in the bus queue. 

“Stop it, will you?” protests one of Freddie’s classmates.

“You can’t tell me what to do!” laughs Freddie.

At that moment, Freddie turns to see the deputy head, wearing a high-visibility jacket, staring angrily at him. Without thinking, Freddie stops pushing the other boys and waits quietly in line.

Discuss the legitimacy of authority and agentic state explanations of obedience. Refer to Freddie’s behaviour in your answer.

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24 marks

Outline two explanations of resistance to social influence.

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32 marks

Outline what is meant by ‘agentic state’ as an explanation for obedience.

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416 marks

Discuss what psychological research has told us about why people conform.

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