Conformity is the tendency to adjust one's attitudes or behaviors to align with those of a group from "summary" of The Handbook of Social Psychology by Daniel Todd Gilbert,Susan T. Fiske,Gardner Lindzey
Conformity refers to the natural human inclination to adjust one's attitudes or behaviors to match those of a group. This phenomenon is a fundamental aspect of social interaction and plays a significant role in shaping individual behavior within a society. When individuals conform to group norms, they are essentially aligning themselves with the prevailing beliefs, values, and behaviors of the group. The concept of conformity has been extensively studied in social psychology, with researchers seeking to understand the underlying mechanisms and processes that drive this behavior. Through various experiments and observations, psychologists have identified several factors that influence the extent to which individuals conform to group norms. These factors include the size and unanimity of the group, the level of ambiguity in the situation, and the presence of social influence. One of the key reasons why individuals conform to group norms is the need for social acceptance and approval. People often conform to avoid rejection or conflict with others, and to maintain positive relationships within the group. In many cases, individuals may also conform because they believe that the group has access to valuable information or possesses greater knowledge about a particular issue. Moreover, conformity can also be driven by normative influence, which refers to the desire to fit in and be liked by others. This form of influence is particularly strong in situations where the group exerts social pressure on its members to adhere to certain norms and standards. As a result, individuals may conform even when they privately disagree with the group's beliefs or behaviors. In addition to normative influence, informational influence also plays a crucial role in shaping conformity. This form of influence occurs when individuals look to the group for guidance and rely on its members' opinions and judgments to make decisions. In such cases, individuals may conform because they believe that the group's perspective is more accurate or valid than their own.- Conformity is a complex social phenomenon that reflects the intricate dynamics of group behavior and individual psychology. By studying the various factors that influence conformity, researchers can gain valuable insights into the ways in which social norms and group dynamics shape human behavior and interaction.
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