Photo source: MagnificHuman beings like believing that they are free thinkers.
We tend to believe that our choices are made with the help of logical thinking,
personal values and free will. However, in real life, our actions are in most
cases affected by those near us. Whether it comes to fashion trends, opinion,
social media behavior, or major life choices, we are more likely to follow the
crowd, than we like to admit. This has been referred to as conformity and it is
a very strong force which influences the way human beings behave in a subtle
and profound way.
What Is Conformity?
Conformity is the inclination to change our thoughts, feelings or actions to align with that of a group. It may occur either consciously or unconsciously. In some cases, we conform because we want to fit in, and in other cases we conform because we think that the group knows better.
As an illustration, consider being in a room where everybody claims a very obvious wrong response to be right. You might be reluctant to disagree even when you know the truth. This indecisiveness is the power of conformity in the workplace.
Why Do People Conform?
The psychological factors that lead to the crowd following include a number of reasons.
1. The Belonging Need.
Man is a social animal. Naturally, we want to be accepted and to be connected. Emotional security comes with being a part of a group and it can feel unsafe to stand out. Conforming assists us in escaping rejection and ensuring that we are at peace with others.
This is particularly potent in intimate settings such as schools, workplaces, and social groups. To feel part of the group, people tend to change their behavior to fit the other people in the group.
2. Fear of Judgment
Conforming is common to many people due to the fear of being judged or criticized. It may cause embarrassment or conflict since one may speak out of the majority. To evade such embarrassing moments, people tend to follow through with the group - even when they are not in agreement amongst themselves.
This fear is enhanced in social places where opinions are shown and immediate reactions are received.
3. The Fallacy of Assuming that People Know More.
When situations are uncertain, we would be tempted to seek advice of others. When the rest of the people appear confident about a choice, we can even assume that they have more information or experience.
This kind of conformity is referred to as informational influence. It assists us to negotiate the complicated situations, yet it may also contribute to making bad decisions in case the group is mistaken.
4. Social and Habit Conditioning.
Since our childhood, we learn to obey the rules and show respect to the authority. This conditioning over time determines our behavior. We are taught what is acceptable and we modify ourselves to it.
Consequently, conformity is likely to be automatic. Social norms are followed by us even without our knowledge.
Examples of Conformity in Everyday Life,
This conformity does not apply to only large decisions, but conformity is observed in daily life:
- Finding a joke funny due to the fact that all the other people in the room are laughing.
- Wearing in line with the latest fashion.
- Concurring with the trending views in the social media.
- Selecting a restaurant due to its popularity.
- Lifestyles or habits that are adopted on the influence of peers.
Those little things might not seem like much, but they demonstrate the extent to which social influence can be manipulated to influence our actions.
The good side of conformity
There is nothing bad in all conformity. In most instances, it assists the society to operate without any hitches.
- It enhances collaboration and minimizes conflict.
- It assists individuals in adhering to significant regulations (such as traffic regulations).
- It gives the feeling of cohesion and commonality.
- It enables the cultural traditions to persist.
Without a certain degree of conformity, the social life would be disorderly.
The dark side of conformity
Nevertheless, conformity may result in bad outcomes as well.
1. Loss of Individuality
In case individuals are always on the side of the crowd,
they can end up losing their identity. They are more affected by other people
and not by personal values.
2. Poor Decision-Making
Groups are not necessarily correct. Sightlessly following others may result in making bad decisions. This is particularly so in cases where critical thinking is required.
As history has shown, there have been numerous occasions where individuals have followed the destructive notions just because others did.
3. Peer Pressure
Peer pressure is closely related to conformity. Individuals, in particular, teenagers and young adults, can indulge in risky behaviors in order to fit in.
This may involve bad habits, poor lifestyle decisions or behaviors that run contrary to their own beliefs.
How to Work Out the Conformity and Independence
The aim is not to remove the conformity at all costs but to establish a healthy balance between societal awareness and individual freedom.
1. Develop Self-Awareness
Know your values, beliefs and goals. When you are sure who you are, it is easier to be impervious to unnecessary influence.
2. Question the Crowd
Rather than just saying yes, consider:
- Is this right?
- Do I really think so?
- Is this in my favor or to the benefit of others?
3. Be OK to disagree
Differences in opinions are alright. An expression of confidence and independent thinking is a sign of respectful disagreement.
4. Have the Right People Around You
Select settings in which individuality is honored. When one is surrounded by open-minded individuals, there will be less pressure to conform without thinking.
5. Do Little Things Independently
Begin with easy choices - give your opinion, choose your own decisions and progressively gain confidence in your individuality.
Final Thoughts
It is a natural aspect of human behavior and conformity. It enables us to interact, collaborate and operate in the society. But when carried too far it may narrow our thoughts and dictate our actions.
It is all about awareness. Understanding the reasons why we follow the crowd, we become able to decide when to conform and when not to follow the crowd.
Ultimately, confidence does not mean always doing the opposite of the crowd--but knowing when to do it and when to be the leader.