Types of Conformity and Explanations for Conformity Flashcards
What is the definition of conformity?
Conformity is defined as yielding to group pressures.
How does conformity influence a person’s behavior or opinion?
Conformity leads to a change in a person’s behavior or opinion as a result of real or imagined pressure from people.
Under what conditions are people more likely to conform?
People are more likely to conform when there are no consequences for non-conforming and real imagined group pressures exist.
What are the three types of conformity proposed by Kelman?
Internalization, identification, and compliance.
What is internalization in the context of conformity?
Internalization is when an individual adopts the beliefs, values, and behaviors of the group, making these changes part of their personal values. This change is usually permanent.
Can you give an example of internalization?
A person raised in a religious household who adopts the beliefs and practices as their own.
What is identification in terms of conformity?
Identification is a temporary change in behavior or beliefs to align with a group one admires, usually lasting only in the presence of the group.
Provide an example of identification.
Acting more professional and reserved at work compared to at home to fit in with colleagues.
What does compliance mean in relation to conformity?
Compliance is when a person outwardly goes along with the group to gain approval or avoid disapproval, without genuinely agreeing with the group’s views.
Give an example of compliance.
Pretending to enjoy a type of music because others in a social setting are fans, even if you don’t actually like it.
What is informational social influence?
Informational social influence occurs when people conform because they believe others are correct, especially in ambiguous situations.
When is informational social influence most likely to occur?
It occurs when someone is uncertain or lacks knowledge and looks to the group for guidance.
Provide an example of informational social influence.
Agreeing with the majority opinion on which direction to go when unsure of the way.
What is normative social influence?
Normative social influence happens when a person conforms to be liked or accepted by others, even if they disagree internally.
Can you give an example of normative social influence?
Starting to smoke because one’s friends smoke, despite not initially wanting to.
