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GATE 2026 XH5 (Psychology) – Question 60

Social Psychology · Social Influence: Conformity, compliance and obedience, attitudes, beliefs and values · 2 marks · Multiple select

According to Moscovici’s Conversion Theory (1980) which of the following statements is/are true for majority influence?

  1. Majority influence generates a comparison process (focus on relationship between source and target).
  2. Conflict is resolved by overt compliance to majority position in public.
  3. Triggers validation process (closer attention to the issue).
  4. Target is unlikely to agree with minority in public, for fear of being labelled “deviant”.

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Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (A) Majority influence generates a comparison process (focus on relationship between source and target).; (B) Conflict is resolved by overt compliance to majority position in public.

Explanation

In Moscovici's theory the majority triggers a comparison process, in which people look at how they stand relative to the source, and the conflict is settled by public compliance. A closer look at the issue (the validation process) and reluctance to side openly with the group come with minority influence, so C and D do not describe majority influence.