The earliest definition of conformity is "yielding to group pressures" (Crutchfield, 1955). It occurs when group pressure can successfully influence an individual to comply with the group through a change in belief or behavior. A modern definition of conformity shows that it hasn’t changed much over the years, except in perspective. Cialdini (2004) states that conformity refers to “the act of changing one’s behavior to match the responses of others."
Conformity can come in a few types of forms. Other than compliance or acceptance to group pressure, an individual can internalize beliefs of the group and adopt behaviors consistent with their value system. Another method of conforming involves identifying with the group, by establishing a self-defining relationship to it or another person. For example, this occurs when one fulfills a social expectation of a specific role, e.g. police officers.
Why do people conform? The main reasons people conform is for social rewards such as approval, success, wealth, acceptance into certain groups, etc. Furthermore, there are eight personality traits related to conformity: submissiveness, lack of self-confidence, lack of intelligence, lack of originality, authoritarian-minded, lacking motivation, conventionality and a desire for social approval.
Why does conformity matter? This ubiquitous social force occurs through us every day and understanding its implications gives us tremendous insight into society and ourselves. It is neither good nor bad since society's foundation is based upon it but individuals should be wary of their own self-autonomy. Conformity is such a powerful influence in society that it would be difficult to understand human behavior without it.
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