Final answer:
Idiosyncrasy credits in social psychology explain why leniency is extended to minority dissenters who are seen as eclectic and free-spirited, and not a threat to the group. This phenomenon occurs when there is an illusion of unanimity among the group members and negative attitudes towards differing viewpoints are held.
Step-by-step explanation:
Idiosyncrasy credits in social psychology explain why leniency is often extended to minority dissenters who are seen as eclectic and free-spirited. According to the concept, individuals who deviate from the majority group's opinions and behaviors are tolerated because they are not perceived as a threat to the group's cohesion. This phenomenon occurs when there is an illusion of unanimity among the group members and negative attitudes towards differing viewpoints are held.