Sherif's Autokinetic Effect Study

Sherif's Autokinetic Effect Study, conducted in the 1930s, explored how people's perceptions can change in groups. Participants were placed in a dark room and asked to estimate the movement of a small stationary light, which appeared to move due to visual illusions. Initially, their individual responses varied widely. However, when placed in groups and asked to judge the light's movement together, their estimates converged, showing a tendency to conform to others' opinions. This study highlighted how social influence can shape perceptions and the importance of group dynamics in decision-making processes.