In Sherif's experiment using the autokinetic effect, social influence was demonstrated by the
A) spatial relationships involved in the autokinetic effect.
B) unspoken nature of norms displayed by the participants.
C) fact that a single light in a dark room will appear to drift or move.
D) convergence of judgments by the participants.

Question

In Sherif's experiment using the autokinetic effect, social influence was demonstrated by the​
A) ​spatial relationships involved in the autokinetic effect.
B) ​unspoken nature of norms displayed by the participants.
C) ​fact that a single light in a dark room will appear to drift or move.
D) ​convergence of judgments by the participants.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sherif's experiment showed social influence through the convergence of judgments by the participants. Through the use of the autokinetic effect, where a single light in a dark room appears to drift or move, participants were asked to estimate how far the light moved. Initially, their estimates varied widely. However, after several trials in groups, participants' estimates began to converge towards a group norm, demonstrating the effects of social influence.

In Sherif's Experiment Using the Autokinetic Effect, Social Influence Was