Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) Practice Test

Which of the following is NOT a theme of ambivalence?

1. Peer pressure

2. Diffusion of responsibility

3. Social influence

4. Evaluation apprehension

The correct answer is: Peer pressure

The concept of ambivalence typically refers to the presence of mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone. Among the provided options, peer pressure does not inherently embody a theme of ambivalence. Peer pressure generally signifies the influence exerted by a peer group, encouraging individuals to conform to the group's behaviors or attitudes. It involves a clear form of behavioral influence and often results in a straightforward decision-making process focused on conformity versus non-conformity. In contrast, the other concepts—diffusion of responsibility, social influence, and evaluation apprehension—relate more directly to ambivalence. For instance, diffusion of responsibility can lead to uncertainty in action when people believe that others will take responsibility in a group setting, creating ambivalence about one’s individual role. Social influence encompasses various psychological dynamics, including ambivalence, faced when individuals are torn between their beliefs and the pressure to conform. Evaluation apprehension arises from concern about how one's actions are perceived by others, often leading to mixed feelings regarding self-presentation and decision-making. Thus, the notion of ambivalence is more closely aligned with the remaining themes rather than with peer pressure.