Psychology GCSE
Authority
What Authority means in Psychology GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Authority
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Authority in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A social factor: a legitimate, visible figure with perceived right to command increases obedience by triggering the agentic state.
Topics that use Authority
- Social influence (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- Adorno's theory of the authoritarian personality
- Bystander intervention
- Characteristics and link to obedience
- Cost of helping
- Culture
- Deindividuation
- Morality
- Origins in parenting and socialisation
Using Authority in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
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