Types of conformity and explanations for conformity

What is conformity?

Conformity= A form of social influence that results from exposure to the majority position that leads to the adoption of that position. The tendency for people to adopt the behaviour/attitudes of other members of a reference group.

Who suggested that there were 3 ways in which people conform to the opinion of the majority?

3 ways in which people conform to the opinion of the majority was suggested by Kelman (1958)

What are the 3 types of conformity?

3 types of conformity=

• Compliance

• Identification

• Internalisation

What is compliance (a type of conformity)?

Compliance= A superficial and temporary type of conformity where we outwardly go along with the majority view, but privately disagree with it. The change in our behaviour only lasts as long as the group is monitoring us.

What is identification (a type of conformity)?

Identification= A moderate type of conformity where we act in the same way as the group because we value it and want to be part of it. But we don’t necessarily agree with everything the group/majority believes.

What is internalisation (a type of conformity)? 

Internalisation=  A deep type of conformity where we take on the majority view because we accept it as correct. It leads to a far-reaching and permanent change in behaviour, even when the group is absent.

What are the two explanations for conformity, as described by Gerard (1955)? 

Two explanations for conformity, as described by Gerard (1955)=

• Informational Social Influence (ISI)

• Normative Social Influence (NSI)

What is Informational Social Influence?

Informational Social Influence= is based on the ‘need to be right/correct’ and might occur when

• you don’t know what to do in an ambiguous situation

• you think others are more expert than you are

• you are developing stereotypes of groups you have limited knowledge or experience of

What is Normative Social Influence?

Normative Social Influence= is based on the ‘need to be liked’ and might occur in situations of

• bullying

• smoking

• underage drinking

• any instance of peer pressure