Obedience - Applications

Most social groups encompass a hierarchy, this is the structure of an organisation or group, which starts with a person at the top with the most authority, and with a descending line of command and decision making. These are used to keep order in institutions and situations.

Prisons

• Prisoners are seperated to reduce the effect of consenus, so group rebellion is less likely to occur
• Rewards are given for conformity and good behaviour
• Privileges are lost if one inmate misbehaves
• Prisoners may conform to a social role

Armed Forces

• Knowledgeable/experienced people in command are figures of authority with the power to punish
• Individuality is removed so that they comply to roles
• Punishment is used as power to punish increases obedience
• Order is ridigly kept

Schools

• Clearly set rules
• Rewards for positive behaviours