In 1978 Jim Jones, the leader of the People's Temple, forced more than 900 of his followers to commit suicide at gun point by drinking poisoned Flavor Aid. In the run-up to this event, Jones had strictly enforced discipline, mocking and ridiculing anyone who expressed doubts, at times even having doubters sedated. This extreme effort to enforce conformity is an example of:
A) the expressive self.
B) the Twenty Statements Test.
C) bureaucracy.
D) peer pressure.
E) an out-group.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The extreme effort by Jim Jones to enforce discipline and conformity among his followers characterizes the use of peer pressure. Jones sought to ensure that his followers had a strong sense of belonging to the group and were afraid of being ostracized if they expressed any doubts or dissent. This type of social influence is an example of peer pressure, where individuals conform to a group's expectations to avoid rejection or ridicule.

In 1978 Jim Jones, the Leader of the People's Temple