A major software development firm, 'Aetheric Systems', wanted its employees to strictly adhere to clean-desk and screen-locking security protocols. Initially, the IT security department sent out weekly automated email alerts and placed static stickers on the edge of monitors reminding staff of the risks of data breaches. However, subsequent spot-checks showed zero improvement in compliance rates.
Subsequently, the firm brought in an elite, world-renowned ethical hacker to deliver a live demonstration of credential harvesting in the company's main auditorium. Following this, the company held team-by-team interactive simulation workshops with the hacker. Additionally, they deployed peer security champions within each open-plan office bay to sit among development teams, hand out immediate 'compliance tokens' (exchangeable for premium coffee), and physically point out unlocked screens.
A compliance audit one month later revealed a dramatic, sustained reduction in security protocol violations.
Evaluate the extent to which human behaviour, such as compliance with workplace security regulations, can be explained by social impact theory.
You must make reference to the context in your answer.
36 exam-style questions on Edexcel A Level Psychology Issues and debates, covering Issues and debates. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.