Using your knowledge of psychology, explain why some people might resist pressures to conform. [4 marks]

Answer: Some people resist pressures to conform because of social support. When individuals see others resisting group pressure, it gives them confidence to act independently. The presence of a supportive ally breaks the sense of unanimity in the group, reducing feelings of isolation and making it easier to resist conforming.

Resistance can also be explained by locus of control. People with an internal locus of control believe that their behaviour and outcomes are determined by their own choices rather than external factors. This sense of personal responsibility makes them more confident in their own judgements and less likely to be influenced by others, helping them to resist pressures to conform.