What kind of person is called a conformist? Signs in appearance and behavior

neuropsychologist, neuraliner

“In order to resist conformity, one must develop critical thinking and independent judgment. Practicing self-knowledge and consciously choosing one’s values will also help to preserve individuality. It is important to create a safe environment for personal expression and provide psychological support for those who choose the same path.”

What is conformism?

It is a psychological tendency to conform one’s own beliefs and behavior to the norms and values of the majority. It is about the desire to be like others, to maintain generally accepted standards and avoid conflicts in a social group.

Conformism is not just a set of behavioral reactions. It is a mirror of our desire to be accepted and the fear of being ostracized from society. Understanding this phenomenon will help us strive to be more conscious of our actions and preserve the uniqueness of each individual.

Meaning in society

Conformity is the tendency of people to agree with the opinions or actions of a group for certain goals. For example, to gain social approval or to avoid the fear of being rejected. In society, such a property of personality plays a dual role.

On the one hand, it contributes to social harmony. Why? It facilitates mutual understanding and predictability of behavior. It creates a sense of security and belonging to society – basic human needs.

On the other hand, excessive conformism suppresses individuality and critical thinking. In turn, this leads to the assumption that the norms and attitudes of the group will be unquestioningly accepted by all its members. Even if they are ineffective or unfair.

It is important to find a balance between the desire to be part of a collective and maintaining autonomy. Society should value diversity of opinion and promote healthy discourse.

This balance allows for unity around common goals without losing the individualism and innovation potential of each person.

Conformism is not only a way of following rules. It is also an opportunity for self-development through a conscious choice to follow tradition or express one’s uniqueness.

Causes of conformism

Social pressure

It affects a person when his environment actively promotes certain norms or beliefs. Often we succumb to this influence. Why? To avoid conflict or to look “right” in the eyes of others.

Fear of rejection

This is another strong driving force. People naturally seek to remain part of society. They also fear being isolated or misunderstood, which can make them agree with the majority opinion. Even if it contradicts our personal beliefs.

The desire to belong to a group

The need for social support and recognition has always been important to humans. We want to feel like we are a valued part of society. Which sometimes leads us to accept group norms without critical reflection.

It is important to be aware of these conformity factors to develop the ability to maintain one’s individuality. Also to express personal views despite the possible disapproval of others.

Such aspects are key in understanding social group dynamics and control mechanisms. Knowledge of them helps to develop strategies in team management, advertising, political campaigns and educational programs.

Effects of conformity on personality

Long-term adherence to conformist behavior can lead to the obscuring of personal interests and desires.

In extreme cases, this causes a crisis of self-identity – when a person no longer understands what he really wants. As a result, he or she loses the ability to make independent decisions.

Psychologist of corporate well-being platforms “I Understand”

“It is important to remember that conformism is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. Its impact can be varied in different situations and contexts.”

Examples of conformism in different domains

Behavior

People often adjust their opinions or actions to those around them, even if they themselves think differently. An example here is the Solomon Asch experiment. In the study, a group of people were given cards with lines of different lengths. The task of the participants was to determine which of the three lines on one card corresponded to the length on the other.

The main trick here was that in a group of six people, five turned out to be accomplices. They would deliberately name the wrong line. Only the real test subject didn’t know it was rigged.

As a result, psychologists noticed that the subjects often agreed with the majority opinion. Even though it was clearly wrong. This confirmed the effect of group pressure on conforming behavior.

Style

Sometimes people follow fashion trends even if it doesn’t match their own taste. For example, most 30-year-olds remember the low-slung jeans that were popular in the years of their youth. But models with high waist were considered mauvais then. Now it’s the other way around. And 30-year-olds are happy to wear what once would not have looked at.

Social networks

In the media space, many users seek to emphasize themselves by conforming to what is considered popular or accepted. For what purpose? To gain recognition and attention.

Filming riles, describing the target audience, their interests and following them is a prime example of using conformity. Influencers, by the way, are the people who often support this conformism.

Ways to overcome conformism

In fact, this trend can be overcome. There are several ways.

• Increase self-awareness and self-esteem. What for. To better understand and confidently express your own beliefs and values.

• To develop critical thinking and analyze information. This will help you not to blindly accept the majority opinion.

• To support freedom and self-expression in society. This will create an atmosphere where people feel comfortable and can boldly express their opinions.

• Form a supportive environment. In such a society, differences are welcomed and the individual characteristics of each person are respected.