Explanations of conformity

Compliance: to conform with the majority publicly for acceptance or approval whilst disagreeing privately. Our adopted opinions only last as long as we are with the majority group.
Internalisation: a type of conformity where we take on the views and attitudes of the majority group because we agree that they are correct. We agree both publicly and privately.
Normative social influence: occurs when an individual conforms to norms of the majority even if they privately disagree. This is because as humans we have a biological fear of rejection and a fundamental need for social approval. The need to ‘fit in’ to avoid being viewed as an ‘outcast’ is an emotional response.
Informational social influence: occurs when an individual conforms because they are unsure in a situation. We look to others who we believe are more certain of the situation to guide us. This explanation of conformity is driven by a biological need to be right and is a cognitive response.

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