In social psychology, the term panoptic surveillance is defined as:

• A. A method of direct, face-to-face monitoring by authority figures in small groups.
• B. A system of observation in which individuals are aware they may be watched at any time, leading them to regulate their own behavior.
• C. A process where people only observe themselves without external influence.
• D. A type of surveillance that relies solely on technological devices without any psychological impact.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key concept in the problem: 'panoptic surveillance' in social psychology.
2. Recall that panoptic surveillance is derived from the idea of the Panopticon, a design for prisons where inmates can be watched at any time without knowing exactly when they are being observed.
3. Understand that this concept emphasizes the psychological effect of being potentially observed, which leads individuals to regulate their own behavior even without direct monitoring.
4. Compare the given options to this understanding, focusing on the idea of awareness of possible observation and self-regulation of behavior.
5. Select the option that best matches this definition: 'A system of observation in which individuals are aware they may be watched at any time, leading them to regulate their own behavior.'