Question

An individual’s attitude may not always be exhibited through behaviour. When would there be consistency between attitude and behaviour? Explain.

Answer 1

Psychologists have found that there would be consistency between attitudes and behaviour when:

• the attitude is strong, and occupies a central place in the attitude system
• there is very little or no external pressure for the person to behave in a particular way. For example, when there is no group pressure to follow a particular norm
• the person’s behaviour is not being watched or evaluated by others
• the person thinks that the behaviour would have a positive consequence, and therefore, intends to engage in that behaviour.