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Conformity and Competence Frustration: A Self-Determination Theory Perspective
1School of Psychology, Sport Science and Wellbeing, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK.
Psychological Reports
|June 13, 2025
Summary
Feeling incompetent increases conformity, while feeling competent decreases it. This study replicates mid-20th century findings on perceived competence and conformity using self-determination theory.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Mid-20th century studies linked perceived incompetence to increased conformity.
- Replications are scarce, questioning contemporary relevance of these findings.
- Self-determination theory offers a framework to re-examine this relationship.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conceptually replicate earlier findings on perceived competence and conformity.
- To investigate these effects through the lens of self-determination theory.
- To assess the impact of manipulated competence feedback on conformity levels.
Main Methods:
- 126 participants received feedback to induce either perceived competence or incompetence.
- The study measured subsequent levels of conformity.
- A conceptual replication approach was employed, integrating self-determination theory.
Main Results:
- Perceived incompetence (competence frustration) significantly increased conformity.
- Perceived competence (competence satisfaction) significantly decreased conformity.
- Findings align with self-determination theory's principles.
Conclusions:
- The relationship between perceived competence and conformity is robust and replicable.
- Frustration of the need for competence drives controlled behavioral regulation (conformity).
- This research validates and extends previous work within a contemporary theoretical framework.
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