Types of conformity

• Define conformity and identify the three types.


  Conformity = when a persona changes their behaviour/beliefs in response to group pressure from a majority.

  Types: Compliance, identification and internalisation.
• Outline compliance.


  Compliance refers to when an individual changes their behaviour to fit in with the majority.

  This is only a public change, meaning they maintain a different private view.

  It is also a temporary change in that once the majority group are no longer present, the individual returns to their original behaviour.

  An example: A teenager smokes to fit in with their friends even they do not like it and never smoke when alone.
• Outline identification.

  Identification refers to when an individual changes their behaviour and beliefs because they identify as a member of a group and so look to that group for guidance on how to think or behave.

  This is a public and private change in that they will maintain this behaviour or belief even when they are not in the presence of the group.

  However, it is only a temporary change meaning if the individual no longer identifies as a member of the group, they will no longer display their beliefs or behaviour.
• Outline internalisation.

  Internalisation refers to when an individual changes their behaviour and beliefs because they believe the majority is correct.

  This is a public and private change meaning the individual will maintain this behaviour/belief even when the majority is no longer present.

  It is also a permanent change as the majority's viewpoint becomes a part of their own belief system.