How did Asch's participants who did not conform feel after the experiment?

Participants in Asch's experiments who chose not to conform often experienced a lack of confidence in their decision-making. This outcome stems from the pressure exerted by the majority during the group tasks. Although they publicly disagreed with the group, internally they struggled with self-doubt and questioned their perceptions. The discomfort of standing alone against a majority led them to feel uncertain about their own judgment.

This influence is crucial in understanding the dynamics of conformity and individual decision-making. Participants frequently second-guessed their original judgments, indicating that even when they stood firm against the group, it often did not bolster their self-assurance. In contrast, participants who conformed might have felt more secure in their decisions, highlighting the psychological impact of group influence on individual behavior.