Conformity plays a crucial role in our lives, as we are all influenced in some way by our social and cultural environment. Throughout the day, we encounter various situations in which we tend to settle, either explicitly or implicitly, for different reasons. There are three types of conformity that affect us on a daily basis: conformity by acceptance, conformity by compliance and conformity by identification.
Conformity by Acceptance
Conformity by acceptance refers to the tendency of people to adopt the beliefs or behaviors of a group with which they wish to be accepted or approved. This type of conformity can manifest itself in situations where a person changes their opinion or acts in a certain way to fit into a specific group. One of the factors that influence conformity through acceptance is the desire for belonging and social approval. People tend to conform to avoid rejection or exclusion from the group to which they aspire to belong.
Why do we conform for acceptance?
Psychologically, the need for belonging and connection Social is a powerful force in human beings. From an early age, we seek acceptance and validation from our peers, as this strengthens our identity and self-esteem. Conformity by acceptance can be motivated by fear of rejection, social anxiety, or simply the desire to be part of a group we admire or value.
Examples of Conformity by Acceptance
A common example of conformity through acceptance occurs in adolescence, when young people may adopt fashions, musical tastes or behaviors to fit in with their friends or the dominant social group in their environment. Another common situation is conformity in the workplace, where employees may adopt the same opinions or behaviors as their colleagues or superiors to be seen favorably and avoid conflicts or criticism.
Compliance through Compliance
Conformity by compliance is based on the tendency of people to adjust their behavior or attitudes to follow the norms or rules established by an authority or institution. This type of conformity can occur in both formal and informal contexts, and is influenced by social pressure and obedience to authority. Conformity for compliance can be an adaptation and survival mechanism in certain situations, but it can also lead to questionable or ethically questionable decisions.
Why do we conform for compliance?
The Conformity by compliance is related to obedience to authority and the need for order and structure in society. People tend to follow rules and norms imposed by authority figures, either out of fear of the consequences of defying them or out of belief in the legitimacy of those norms. Additionally, compliance can offer benefits such as security, stability, and social cohesion.
Examples of Compliance by Compliance
A classic example of compliance by compliance is Stanley Milgram's experiment on obedience to authority, in which participants were willing to administer electric shocks to strangers only on the orders of a scientific authority. In the workplace, conformity by compliance can be observed when employees follow the company's policies and procedures without questioning their usefulness or ethics, simply due to pressure from the organizational hierarchy.
Conformity by IdentificationConformity by Identification
Conformity by identification is based on people's desire to be similar to those whom they admire, respect, or consider important in their lives. This type of conformity is influenced by empathy, affection, and the desire for emotional connection with role models. Conformity by identification can lead to changes in a person's behavior, attitudes or beliefs to reflect those of an individual or reference group.
Why do we conform by identification?
Conformity by identification is based on the human need to establish significant emotional and social bonds. When we identify with someone we admire or value, we tend to imitate their behaviors or adopt their points of view to strengthen the emotional connection and sense of belonging. This form of conformity can lead to the aspiration to be like the role model, adopting their values, interests or lifestyle.
Examples of Conformity by Identification
A clear example of Conformity by identification is when a fan of a sports team adopts the colors, symbols and behaviors of the most prominent players or followers to demonstrate their loyalty and commitment. In the cultural sphere, conformity by identification can be observed when people imitate the way of dressing, speaking or behaving of celebrities or opinion leaders as a way of feeling more connected and part of a select group.
In conclusion, the three types of conformity - acceptance, compliance and identification - influence our daily decisions and behaviors in subtle but significant ways. Understanding these processes allows us to reflect on our own motivations and become more aware of how we are influenced by our social and cultural environment. The key is to find a balance between the need for belonging and acceptance, respect for established norms and authorities, and the development of an authentic identity consistent with our individual values and aspirations.