J-curve hypothesis
the predicted shape of the distribution of responses in conformity settings, which reflects the fact that most individuals conform to the prescribed norm or act in ways that only slightly deviate from the norm, and few individuals exhibit substantial deviation from the norm. A classic illustration is that of drivers at a stoplight: Most respond by stopping fully, some sharply or moderately reduce speed, and a few do not change speed at all. When graphed, the number of people displaying these different reactions approximates the shape of a letter J. [first proposed in 1934 by Floyd H. Allport]