Conformity Behavior In Schizophrenics

The present study addressed the question of conformity behavior in schizophrenia. Fenichel (1945), Cameron (1947), and Mowrer (1950) theorized that schizophrenia entails reduced monitoring of the external world. As conformity behavior is based largely upon awareness of the external world, it follows that schizophrenia should be accompanied by reduced conformity behavior. A number of studies researching the above hypothesis were examined. These studies reported mixed results. The methodologies used in these studies were compared and contrasted in an attempt to explain their inconsistent results. Many inconsistencies were found, but no single pattern appeared that could account for the varied, past results. Thus, the present study selected and examined one promising variable, confederate status, and incorporated a previously neglected matching dimension, verbal intelligence.