What is Conformity?
Conformity is a psychological phenomenon in which individuals change their behaviour, opinions, or beliefs to match those of the people around them. It is a process by which a person’s beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours are influenced by those of the group they are in. Conformity is a form of social influence that can be seen in many aspects of everyday life. It can be observed in both small and large groups, and it can have both positive and negative effects.
The Different Types of Conformity
There are three main types of conformity: compliance, identification, and internalisation. Compliance is when an individual changes their behaviour in order to fit in with the group, but without actually changing their beliefs or attitudes. Identification is when an individual changes their behaviour in order to fit in with the group, and also changes their beliefs and attitudes to match those of the group. Internalisation is when an individual changes their behaviour, beliefs, and attitudes in order to fit in with the group, and also adopts the group’s values and norms as their own.
The Causes of Conformity
There are several factors that can lead to conformity. One of the most important is the need for acceptance and approval from others. Individuals may feel a strong desire to fit in with the group, and may be willing to change their behaviour in order to do so. Another factor is the need for consistency. People may feel a need to be consistent with their behaviour in order to maintain their identity. Finally, individuals may feel a need to conform in order to avoid disapproval or rejection from the group.
The Effects of Conformity
Conformity can have both positive and negative effects. On the positive side, it can lead to increased group cohesion and cooperation, as well as increased group productivity. It can also help people to develop their social skills and build relationships with others. On the negative side, it can lead to decreased creativity, as individuals may be less likely to express their own ideas and opinions. It can also lead to a lack of critical thinking and an increased reliance on the group’s opinion, which can be dangerous in certain situations.
Examples of Conformity
Conformity can be seen in many aspects of everyday life. For example, it can be seen in fashion, where individuals may dress in a similar way to those around them. It can also be seen in language, where individuals may use the same slang words and phrases as their peers. Finally, it can be seen in behaviour, where individuals may act in a similar way to those around them.
Conclusion
Conformity is a psychological phenomenon that can be seen in many aspects of everyday life. It is a process by which an individual’s beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours are influenced by those of the group they are in. There are three main types of conformity, and several factors that can lead to it. It can have both positive and negative effects, and can be seen in fashion, language, and behaviour.
FAQs
What is Conformity?
Conformity is a type of social influence in which an individual changes their behaviour or beliefs to match the behaviour or beliefs of a group.
What are the Different Types of Conformity?
There are three main types of conformity: compliance, identification, and internalisation. Compliance is when an individual changes their behaviour to match the behaviour of the group, but does not necessarily agree with it. Identification is when an individual changes their behaviour to match the behaviour of the group and also agrees with it. Internalisation is when an individual changes their behaviour and beliefs to match the behaviour and beliefs of the group and fully adopts them.
What are the Benefits of Conformity?
Conformity can be beneficial in certain situations, as it can help individuals feel accepted and included in a group. It can also help individuals feel safe and secure, as they are not alone in their decisions.
What are the Drawbacks of Conformity?
Conformity can be detrimental in certain situations, as it can lead individuals to make decisions without considering the potential consequences. It can also lead individuals to act in ways that go against their own beliefs and values.
What are Some Examples of Conformity?
Examples of conformity include following fashion trends, following the same religious beliefs as a group, and following the same political views as a group.
References
1. Asch, S. E. (1951). Effects of group pressure upon the modification and distortion of judgments. In H. Guetzkow (Ed.), Groups, leadership and men (pp. 177-190). Pittsburgh, PA: Carnegie Press.
2. Cialdini, R. B., & Goldstein, N. J. (2004). Social influence: Compliance and conformity. Annual Review of Psychology, 55(1), 591-621.
3. Moscovici, S. (1980). Toward a theory of conversion behavior. In L. Berkowitz (Ed.), Advances in experimental social psychology (Vol. 13, pp. 209-239). San Diego, CA: Academic Press.