Question

Social psychology is best defined as the scientific study of Select one:

a. sociology

b. social influence

c. social norms

d. deviant social behavior

e. social mores

Students in a school building noticed a foul odor outside and a few began to speculate perhaps someone released a dangerous gas. Soon, the TV stations heard and began to report the story about a report of foul odors and complaints of symptoms were popping up everywhere. Many students complain of being ill for days after the event despite it being found the problem was merely a dead animal in a duct that was decaying. Physicians rule out any adverse effects from the odor and school administrators are unable to convince students to return to school. This phenomenon is better explained by Select one: a. mass delusions b. mass hysteria c. mass reactions d. mass reversions e. mass stupidity

Answer 1

Social psychology is best defined as the scientific study of social influence.

Social psychology refers to how the behaviors, thoughts and emotions are affected by the influence of the actual, ideal or imagined presence of others. Thus, people would try to stick to the norms of the society and would act in a way that matches their society. Individuals, whether they like it or not would exhibit behaviors and attitudes that would fulfill the social expectations.

This phenomenon is better explained by mass hysteria.

Mass hysteria is triggered by a perceived or imaginary threat from an environmental factor such as the gas smell in this example and everyone quickly starting to believe that they are also affected and feel the threat themselves although it’s not real. This would be strengthened by fear and rumors. Mass delusions on the other hands are not from the environmental factors but from the neurological system from within.

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