Social Influence and Conformity: An Overview
This page provides an introduction to the concepts of social influence and conformity in psychology. Social influence and conformity experiments are crucial for understanding human behavior in group settings.
Conformity is defined as the process of yielding to majority influence. As Myers stated, it involves "a change in behavior or belief as a result of real or imagined group pressure." People conform for various reasons, including the desire to fit in, follow social norms, and ensure survival by adhering to group rules.
The psychology specification outlines key areas of study related to conformity:
• Types of conformity: Compliance, identification, and internalization
• Explanations: Informational and normative social influence
• Variables affecting conformity: Group size, unanimity, task difficulty
• Obedience factors: Agentic state, authority legitimacy, proximity
• Resistance to social influence: Social support, locus of control
• Minority influence and social roles
Definition: Conformity is the tendency to align one's attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors with those of others in a group setting.
Highlight: Understanding conformity is essential for explaining various social phenomena, from fashion trends to political movements.