Final answer:
Conformity in a group is most likely to happen when there is a larger majority, when the individual believes the group has correct information, or when they desire to be liked by the group. Conformity decreases if there is at least one dissenter within the group. The occurrence of groupthink can also contribute to increased conformity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Conformity within a group is most likely to happen under certain conditions, which have been extensively studied by social psychologists such as Solomon Asch. One key condition is the size of the majority: the likelihood of an individual conforming increases with the number of people in the group, up to a certain point. Additionally, if an individual believes that the group is competent and has correct information, they are more likely to conform to the group norm. Asch found that having at least one dissenter in the group significantly reduces conformity, showing the power of social support in maintaining individual opinion against group pressure.
Another phenomenon that increases the likelihood of conformity is groupthink, where group members modify their opinions to align with what they believe is the consensus. This often results in more extreme decisions than would be made by individuals on their own. It's also been found that individuals are more likely to conform when they want to be liked by the group or believe the group is better informed than themselves.
Asch's studies also pointed out disturbing trends regarding conformity. Even intelligent, well-educated individuals could be persuaded to go along with untruths with minimal influence, revealing potential issues with societal values and the education system. The Asch effect, a notable example of social influence, demonstrates the power of the majority in influencing an individual's judgment, even when that judgment is incorrect.