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How Does Forgetting Erode Norm Adherence? A Diffusion Model Approach

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Social norms are a pervasive aspect of human life. Previous research has shown that while norm adherence can persist for a long time, it ultimately declines. However, the mechanisms that drive the erosion of norm adherence are not yet understood. Building on a reinforcement learning perspective, the present study ( N = 429) examined how forgetting affects norm adherence. Using a diffusion model approach, we examined whether norm forgetting is due to a decline in judgmental bias, perceptual bias, or both. Results showed that norm adherence declined over time but remained reliable for up to 7 days post-acquisition. Diffusion model analyses revealed that norm forgetting was driven by the combination of a rapidly declining perceptual bias and a more gradually declining judgmental bias.

Source: Social Psychological and Personality Science

DOI: 10.1177/19485506251379526

Authors: Markus Germar, Vinzenz H. Duderstadt, Andreas Mojzisch

Institutions: University of Hildesheim, University of Göttingen

Language: English

Topic: Social and Intergroup Psychology

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funder: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft

Award: G3777622989