Objectified conformity: working self-objectification increases conforming behavior*. (3rd April 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Andrighetto, Luca; Baldissarri, Cristina; Gabbiadini, Alessandro; Sacino, Alessandra; Valtorta, Roberta Rosa; Volpato, Chiara
• Is Part Of: Social influence. Volume 13:Number 2(2018)
• Page Start: 78
• Page End: 90
• Publication Date: 2018-04-03
• Subjects: Self-objectification -- objectifying activity -- mental states -- conformity; Social influence -- Periodicals; 302.13
• DOI: 10.1080/15534510.2018.1439769
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1553-4510

Abstract

Abstract: The present work explores whether self-objectification triggered by doing peculiar work activities would increase people's conforming behavior. We conducted an experimental study in which participants ( N = 140) were asked to perform a high objectifying activity (vs. low objectifying activity vs. baseline condition) simulating a real computer job. Afterwards, their levels of self-objectification and conforming behavior were assessed. Results revealed that participants who performed the high objectifying activity self-objectified (i.e., perceived themselves as lacking human mental states) more than the other conditions and, in turn, conformed more to the judgments of unknown similar others. Crucially, increased self-objectification mediated the effects of the high objectifying activity on enhancing conforming behavior. Theoretical and applied implications of these findings are discussed.