Conformity Experiment

The Conformity Experiment, notably conducted by Solomon Asch in the 1950s, studied how individuals often change their opinions or behaviors to align with a group, even if they believe the group is wrong. Participants were asked to identify matching lines on cards, but confederates (actors) intentionally gave incorrect answers. Findings showed many people conformed to the wrong group answer to fit in, highlighting the powerful influence of social pressure. The experiment demonstrates how group dynamics can lead individuals to compromise their own judgment to avoid conflict or gain acceptance.