Conformity and Competence Frustration

A Self-Determination Theory Perspective

Bibliographic Data

ID13664487
AuthorsWilliam T Burkitt (0000-0002-0764-1252, University of Lincoln, corresponding author)
Year2025
Pages332941251351242-332941251351242
Publication date2025-06-13
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenuePsychological Reports (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0033-2941 • E-ISSN: 1558-691X
PublisherSAGE Publishing (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/00332941251351242
PMID40512537
OpenAlexW4411257268
LanguageEN
References cited32

Several studies conducted in the mid-20th century found evidence to suggest that perceived incompetence leads to higher levels of conformity. However, there have been very few replications of these studies in the last 40 years, which casts doubt upon their relevance to contemporary human social behaviour. To address this issue, the present research involved a conceptual replication of these original studies within a self-determination theory perspective. Using a sample of 126 participants, participant feedback was manipulated to induce either perceived competence (competence satisfaction) or perceived incompetence (competence frustration), and then the effects of these manipulations on levels of conformity was measured. As expected, competence frustration led to higher levels of conformity, whereas competence satisfaction led to lower levels of conformity. These findings support the idea that the relationship between perceived competence and conformity is analogous to the relationship between frustration of the basic psychological need for competence-as outlined by self-determination theory-and controlled behavioural regulation. Implications of this successful replication and potential future directions are discussed

Competence (human resources · Conformity · Frustration · Motivation and Self-Concept in Sports · Psychology · Resilience and Mental Health · Social Psychology · Youth Development and Social Support

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