Subject to conformism. The Role of Culture in People's Propensity for Conformal Behavior
Conformism (social conformism, conformity) is a change by a person of norms, attitudes, perceptions, opinions and behavior in accordance with those that are accepted or dominate in a given group or society. In turn, norms are implicit, specific rules shared by a group of individuals that govern their interactions with others.
The tendency towards conformism occurs both in small groups and in society as a whole and can be the result of both unconscious influence and outright group pressure. But, curiously, a person can lean towards conformity, even if he is alone with himself. For example, people follow social norms when they watch TV.
Despite the fact that conformism is often viewed as a negative phenomenon, it also carries positive aspects. For example, it allows you to "read" the appropriate behavior in society and to establish effective interaction. It also influences the formation and maintenance of social norms and helps society to function smoothly and predictably by eliminating behavior that is considered contrary to written rules.
Of course, all this does not mean that you should not have your own opinion or a unique view of the world. It just means that any society (be it an African tribe or a Google office) has its own unwritten rules, which it is desirable to adhere to.
Types of conformism
There are several classifications of conformism.
Conformity can be rational and irrational:
- Rational presupposes behavior in which a person is guided by certain reasoning and judgments.
- Irrational conformism (herd behavior) is the kind of behavior that a person exhibits under the influence of instinctive, intuitive and unconscious processes as a result of the influence of someone else's behavior.
The division into internal and external conformism is considered traditional:
- Internal is associated with a real revision of their views and positions by a person, which is very similar to self-censorship.
- External means acceptance of norms and behavior existing in society, but at the same time internal acceptance of opinion does not occur. However, it is precisely this conformism that is considered canonical, since this is an external change.
Harvard psychologist Herbert Kelmann has identified three main types of conformism:
- Submission is social conformity, although a person may have their own convictions. He tends to such behavior out of fear of rejection or a desire to establish himself in society.
- Identity is the desire to be like someone important or popular, such as a celebrity or a beloved uncle. Identification is a deeper type of conformism than submission, because it occurs on an external and internal level.
- Internalization occurs when a person accepts beliefs or behavior, and demonstrates it publicly and privately, if the "source" (role model) is trustworthy. This is the most strong type conformism.
Examples of conformism
A person who does not live in a cave during the working day is constantly faced with manifestation of conformity: in the office, on the way to work, in the supermarket, in the family. Therefore, it is naive to believe that it is you who do not succumb to this pattern of behavior. Rather, it is about accepting the rules and norms, remaining an integral and harmonious person.
Here are some typical examples of conformity.
- The teenager dresses in a certain style because he wants to fit in with others in his social group.
- A 20-year-old student drinks at a party because all her friends do and she doesn't want to look weird.
- A woman reads a book to discuss in a book club. She liked her. Later, in the book club, everyone criticizes the novel, and she eventually agrees with their opinion (either only externally, or also internally, that is, she really begins to think that the book is bad).
- When everyone in the class decides where to go for the May holidays, part of the class persistently proposes one option, and the rest agree so that there is no conflict (while they are the majority).
- People of the past agreed that a certain metal costs a lot of money: because of its rarity, properties, color and other characteristics.
Why do people tend to conform?
Morton Deutsch and Harold Gerard in 1955 put forward a theory about why people become conformists: this is how normative and informational hypotheses emerged.
Information social influence occurs when a person turns to members of their group to get accurate information about reality. Looking at other people can make your choices easier, but unfortunately, people are not always right.
According to the information hypothesis, the reasons for the emergence of conformism:
- This usually happens when a person lacks knowledge and observes the group in order to receive guidance and adjust correctly.
- This type of fit usually involves internalization - when a person takes the views of groups and adapts them as an individual.
- When a person is in an ambiguous (i.e. unclear) situation and socially compares their behavior to the group (Sheriff's experiment).
Muzafer Sheriff (1936) wanted to know how many people would change their minds to bring them into line with the group's. In his experiment, the participants were placed in dark room and they were asked to look at a small point of light 15 feet away. They were then asked to estimate how many feet the point had moved. The trick was the lack of movement, all caused by a visual illusion known as the autokinetic effect. On the first day, the members of the group gave different assessments, but on the fourth day, it was completely the same for everyone. The Sheriff suggested that this experiment was a simulation of conformity.
Regulatory social influence arises when someone seeks to be accepted and appreciated by the rest of the group. This need for social approval and acceptance is part of our needs.
Regulatory impact has three components:
- Number of people: This component has an amazing effect - as the number increases, each person has less of an impact.
- The strength of the group. This is how important the group is to a person. The groups we value have more social impact.
- Immediacy. This is how close the group is in time and space.
According to the normative hypothesis, the main reasons for this are:
- Fear of rejection.
- This type of conformism usually implies compliance: when a person publicly accepts the views of the group but privately rejects them.
- Concession to group pressure for the reason that the person wants to fit into the group (Asch's experiment).
Solomon E. Asch (1951) showed a group of people participating in the experiment, one reference line, and then three others and asked to say which of them is more consistent with the reference. 12 out of 18 people gave the wrong answer while observing each other (although the answer was obvious enough).
As a result of his other experiments, Ash found that approximately 74% of people are conformist.
Social responses and non-conformism
Once a person is faced with group pressure, they may react in very different ways.
When a person finds himself in a position where he publicly agrees with the decision of the group, but privately disagrees with it, there is silent agreement... In turn, transformation otherwise known as private adoption, assumes both public and private agreement with the group's decision. In this case, the person actually changes his mind.
Another type of social response that does not imply conformity is called convergence... Here, the member of the group initially disagrees with the opinion of the group and does not change his point of view.
This behavior is also called non-conformist. Nonconformism is the desire to adhere to and defend norms, opinions, perceptions and behavior that directly contradict those that prevail in a given society or group. Considered the opposite of conformity, but it's not that simple.
Non-conformism can manifest itself in the form of:
- Independence (dissent) - unwillingness to bend under group pressure. In this way, the person stays true to their personal standards instead of accepting group standards. This is exactly the concept of nonconformism that is familiar to most.
- Anti-conformity - accepting opinions that are opposite to those held by the group. Such a person is motivated by the need to rebel against the status quo, he is “against, because against”. He will not read Harry Potter or go to the Avatar movie because most people do that, that is, simply out of principle. Or do all this, but not admit it, so as not to lose your status as a nonconformist in the eyes of others.
In different situations, the same people tend to show different social responses, ranging from tacit consent to anti-conformity. However, if people who adhere to the same demeanor in groups.
In our society great amount people consider themselves non-conformists, engaging in self-deception, and also believing that conformism is necessarily bad. You may have realized by now that even in this matter, it is easy to go to extremes and protest simply because the majority agree. Use and be prepared to make decisions based on facts, not whether many or few people have a particular point of view. We wish you good luck!
Conformity - socio-psychological phenomenon of change in behavior or beliefs under the influence of group pressure.
Conformism is one of the group dynamics phenomena.
Types of conformism:
1) compliance or external public conformism - submission to the opinion of the group while maintaining disagreement with its position;
2) approval or internal personal conformism - a change in behavior and beliefs under the influence of the group as a result of internal acceptance of its position;
3) non-conformism or negative conformism - reactive resistance to group pressure. It manifests itself in a stubborn, non-constructive position of a person, even on generally accepted issues.
Conformity studies were carried out M. Sheriff and S. Ash, who in a series of experiments have established that there are different levels of conformism.
Conformal Behavior Levels:
1) submission at the level of perception - a change in the perception of the subject under the influence of a dummy group;
2) subordination at the assessment level - the subjects' recognition of their assessment as erroneous and adherence to the group's opinion, which is considered correct;
3) submission at the level of action - the subjects' awareness of the group's wrongness, but agreement with it because of the unwillingness to enter into conflict with it.
Conformism is inherent in every person to a certain extent, but the degree of its manifestation depends on situational and personal factors.
Situational factors of conformity:
1) a difficult task or incompetence - the less an individual is confident in his abilities, the more conformable his behavior;
2) the quantitative composition of the group - conformism is higher with the number of group members from three to seven. An increase in the size of a group of more than seven people does not lead to an increase in the degree of conformism;
3) the qualitative composition of the group (their erudition and professional affiliation, etc.);
4) the authority of the person expressing the opposite opinion. At the same time, the closer and more legitimate the authority is, the stronger the submission to authority. Institutionalized authority - the authority of the formal status of a leader in a given organization - causes especially high conformity;
5) cohesion and unanimity of the group. Moreover, if there are people in the group who support the subject, then the effect of group pressure decreases;
6) publicity of responses also increases the level of conformism;
7) working for joint remuneration increases conformity;
8) the significance of belonging to a group increases the degree of conformity.
Personal factors of conformity:
1) age: people under the age of 25 are most susceptible to conformism;
2) gender: for women, conformism is somewhat higher than for men, which is associated with both the social roles they perform in society and the family, and with status differences, aspirations and needs;
3) culture: the degree of conformity of the population in the countries of European and North American culture is lower than in the countries of Asian culture, which affirms the values of collectivism;
4) profession: conformity depends on the need within the professional activity obey your superiors. So a high level of conformity is observed among the military, members of the orchestra, etc .;
5) the status of the individual: people with high status have less conformity than people with low and medium status. Individuals with an average status are most susceptible to group influence.
Conformity theories:
1) information theory Leona Festinger based on the fact that it is not possible to verify all incoming information, so you have to rely on the opinion of other people when it is shared by many;
2) the theory of normative influence is based on the fact that conformism is associated with the desire of the individual to have some of the advantages given by membership in a group.
83. Studies of conformism in foreign and domestic social psychology
Question 84... leadership
The concept of "leader" and "leadership"
Leadership - domination of some members of the group over others.
The concept of a leader means a person who plays a dominant role in the structure of interpersonal relations. Unlike a leader, a leader is an official, vested with powers and associated with the organization of the main activities of the group. These concepts differ in the scope of problems and the procedure for nomination (the leader is nominated spontaneously, the leader is officially appointed).
Signs of leaders:
1) is highly active and proactive in solving the main tasks of the group;
2) is able to influence other members of the group;
3) is well informed about the task at hand, about the members of the group and about the situation in general;
4) behavior corresponds to social attitudes, values and norms adopted in this group;
5) has personal qualities that are standard for this group;
6) is able to go beyond the recognized norms and reference value orientations.
Leader functions:
1) the organization of joint life of the group in various spheres;
2) the development and maintenance of group norms;
3) representation of the group in relations with other groups;
4) acceptance of responsibility for the results of group activities;
5) establishing and maintaining the microclimate of the group.
Types of leadershipM. Weber :
1) traditional leadership - based on traditions, customs, faith, characteristic of traditional societies (eastern despotism, monarchy). The leader is one who belongs to the elite, a narrow group of people;
2) legal-rational (bureaucratic) - based on the rationality of the existing order in society. The leader is the one who possesses a certain level of knowledge, competence, preparedness, characteristic of industrialized countries;
3) charismatic leadership - based on divinity, supernaturalism, unusualness, appear at critical stages in history.
Types of leadership in real management practice:
1) the leader - the organizer - perceives the needs of the team as his own and actively acts. He is optimistic and confident that most problems are completely solvable, he will not offer an empty thing, he knows how to convince, he is inclined to encourage, and if he has to express his disapproval, he does it without hurting someone else's dignity, and as a result, people try to work better;
2) the leader - the creator - has the ability to see new things, which attracts people. Takes on solving problems that may seem insurmountable and even dangerous. Acts not using team methods, but invites for discussion. Sets the task in such a way that it interests and attracts people;
3) a leader - a fighter - has a strong will, is confident in his abilities, is the first to meet danger or uncertainty, and without hesitation enters the fight. He is inclined to stand up for what he believes in and fight to the end. Often acts at his own peril and risk, because he does not have enough time to think over all his actions and foresee everything;
4) the leader - the diplomat - relies on excellent knowledge of the situation and its hidden details. He is well informed about all gossip and gossip, so he knows well who and how to influence. Prefers confidential meetings in a circle of like-minded people. Allows you to openly say what everyone knows in order to divert attention from your not advertised plans;
5) a leader - a comforter - is always ready to support in difficult times, respects people, treats them kindly, polite, helpful, capable of empathy.
Leadership in business sphere("Instrumental leadership") and in the emotional sphere ("expressive leadership").
According to stability, a situational and permanent leader is distinguished.
Leadership theories
Hell theory is based on the idea F. Galton about the hereditary nature of leadership. According to this theory, a leader is not made, but is born. In order to become a leader, you need to have a certain set personality traits or a set of psychological traits, such as intelligence, energy, will, courage, initiative, ability to foresee, the ability to attract attention, self-confidence, sociability, etc. However, this theory did not spread, since there was not a single a leader trait that all researchers would agree with.
Situational leadership theories see the leader as the result of a meeting of subject, place, time and circumstance. To become political leader, according to these theories, certain psychological and professional quality that are actualized by the situation. The author emphasizes the relativity of the traits inherent in the leader depending on the situation to which the leading role is given.
Modified situational leadership theoryE. Hartley is based on a number of assumptions:
1) if a person has become a leader in one situation, then, perhaps, he can become one in another;
2) leaders in one situation are often viewed by the group as leaders in other situations;
3) the authority acquired by the leader in one situation contributes to his election as a leader in another situation;
4) a person who is motivated to do so often becomes a leader.
Situational personality theory G. Hertha and S. Milza, who identified five factors that must be taken into account when considering the phenomenon of leadership:
1) traits of a leader as a person;
2) the motives of the leader;
3) the images of the leader and the motives existing in the minds of his followers and prompting them to follow him;
4) personal characteristics of the leader as social role;
5) official and legitimate parameters within which the leader and his followers act.
Follower theory considers leaders as exponents of moods, interests, needs of certain social groups. The leader is assigned a passive role; he is only an instrument of a social group that chooses the leader who will satisfy it. Who will be the leader depends not on a specific individual and his properties, but on the quality of his followers.
Leadership effectiveness modelF. Fiedler is based on the integration of the leader's influence, his personality traits and situational variables, in particular, the relationship between the leader and the followers. Within this theory, two leadership styles are distinguished:
1) task-oriented instrumental leadership. The leader is more effective when the situation is either very favorable or very unfavorable for him;
2) emotional leadership focused on interpersonal relationships. The leader is more effective in situations that are either moderately favorable or moderately unfavorable.
The theory of the humanistic direction is based on the fact that the leader must transform the organization in such a way that the individual is provided with the freedom to fulfill his own goals and needs, and at the same time so as to contribute to the implementation of the goals and needs of the organization.
Motivational theory argues that the effectiveness of a leader depends on his ability to influence the motivation of followers, on their ability to perform a task productively and on the satisfaction experienced in the course of work.
Psychoanalytic theories of leadership decisive importance in personality behavior is given to subconscious processes, first of all, instinctive aspirations, which are associated with suppressed sexual desires, which are reborn on the basis of sublimation and compensation mechanisms into the motive of power.
Traditional question leadership and leadership is the question of leadership styles (leadership). K. Levin in the 1930s. XX century identified three leadership styles: authoritarian (directive), democratic (collegial) and permissive (anarchic).
According to E.V. Andrienko, the leadership style is a typical system of methods of influencing group members (subordinates or followers) for a leader.
Authoritarian style presupposes tough methods of management, suppression of the initiative of the group members, the absence of group discussion of the decisions made, the leader himself makes decisions, controls and coordinates the work of the group members. The quality of decisions depends on the information that the manager has, on the ability to interpret it correctly. This style promotes the growth of hierarchical levels, the formalization of relations; presupposes clear planning of work, prompt decision-making in extreme situations, performance of work within the allotted time.
Democratic style- collegial discussion of problems, encouragement by the head of the initiative of subordinates, active exchange of information between management and subordinates. The leader has more information about group processes, which makes situations more appropriate, and the decision-making process can be delayed. The style contributes to a favorable psychological climate in the group, among the members of the group there is more high degree satisfaction with their work.
The permissive style manifests itself in voluntary refusal head from management functions, transfer of management functions to group members. The group exists independently, the social distance between the members of the group is reduced, and familiarity increases. At the same time, interest in the case may decrease and lead to a failure to achieve the goal. However, the style can contribute to the growth of responsibility and independence of the rank-and-file members of the group.
Each style has its own merits and demerits; one may be appropriate in some circumstances, the other in others. It is likely that the most successful leaders and leaders are guided by all three styles.
The presented scheme does not cover all aspects of the leadership style manifestation. In experimental studies, the following types will be distinguished: leader-organizer, leader-initiator, leader-erudite, leader-generator of emotional mood, leader-skillful leader, leader of emotional attraction.
Often in experimental research, leadership style is mixed with leadership style. This may not always be justified, since the functions of the leader and the leader, the nature of their activities, are not unambiguous.
85. Leadership and its varieties
Leadership - it is the ability to form a team and lead it to its intended goals based on personal authority. People who have this ability abuse it in the name of personal interests..
The most short definition leadership belongs to T. Gamble and M. Gamble: "Leadership is the ability to influence others."
General leadership in a group consists of the following components: emotional, business and informational. According to the content of leadership activities in social groups, a type of leader type is usually distinguished (sometimes they are called leader roles):
1. Business leadership typical for formal groups solving production problems. It is based on such qualities as high competence, the ability to solve organizational problems better than others, business authority, the greatest experience in this field of activity. Business leadership influences leadership most strongly. He works well with the "business" leader (the hands of the group), he can organize a business, establish the necessary business relationships, and ensure the success of the business.
2. Emotional leadership arises in informal social groups on the basis of human sympathy, the attractiveness of the leader as a participant interpersonal communication... An emotional leader inspires confidence in people, radiates kindness, instills confidence, relieves psychological tension, and creates an atmosphere of psychological comfort. The emotional leader (the heart of the group) is a person to whom each person in the group can turn for sympathy, “cry in the waistcoat”.
3.K Information leader("The brain of the group") everyone asks questions because he is erudite, knows everything, can explain and help find the information he needs.
The best will be a leader who combines all three components, but such universal leader is rare. Most often, however, there is a combination of two components: emotional and business, informational and business.
Situational leadership can be businesslike and emotional in nature. His distinctive feature- instability, temporary limitation, connection with a certain situation. A situational leader can be a leader in some situations and cannot be in others. L.I. Umansky identifies 6 types of leaders according to their roles: 1) organizer (group integration function); 2) initiator (putting forward ideas and solving new problems); 3) generator of emotional mood (dominates in the formation of the mood of the group); 4) standard (sample, ideal, "star"); 5) master (specialist in some kind of activity); 6) erudite (distinguished by extensive knowledge).
Leadership is distinguished by the strength of influence on group members: "unquestioning leader"- instructions are followed even when they are at odds with the interests of the group members; "Not unquestioning"- submission is possible as long as there is no contradiction between their own interests and the needs of the members of the group.
Depending on the direction of influence(rather, by the result of leadership for the organization) leadership can be viewed as constructive-destructive and neutral. The first (functional) contributes to the implementation of the goals of the organization. The second (dysfunctional) is formed on the basis of aspirations that damage the organization (leadership in a group of thieves or bribe-takers formed in production). The third does not directly affect efficiency production activities(Leadership among amateur gardeners working in the same organization). V real life the boundaries between these types of leadership are fluid, especially between constructive and neutral leadership.
88. Subject and structure of applied social psychology
89. Specificity of applied social and psychological research
90. The main areas of activity of a practical social psychologist.
Through practical research and tests, the following have been identified:
In the sphere cognitive functions conformists show less developed intelligence than independent ones; they are characterized by inflexibility of thought processes and poverty of ideas.
In the area of motivation and emotional functions, conformists show less strength of character, less ability to control themselves in stressful conditions; they are characterized by great emotional stiffness, suppressed impulses, a tendency to anxiety.
In the realm of self-awareness, conformists are prone to pronounced feelings of personal inferiority and failure. They lack faith in themselves. Their self-image is more superficial and less realistic than that of the independent.
In the sphere of interpersonal relations, it is typical for conformists to have a heightened concern about other people's opinions of them. In their relationships with people, they show great passivity, suggestibility, dependence on others. At the same time, their relationship to other people is characterized by distrust and vigilance, and the ability to correctly judge another person is lower than that of an independent subject.
The personal attitudes and values of a conformist are characterized by greater routine, a gravitation towards moralization, intolerance towards everything that seems to him to be a "deviation from the norm."
Thus, a high degree of conformism turns out to be associated with general dogmatism, authoritarianism, and stereotyped thinking.
However, neither the dogmatism of thinking, nor the tendency to conformism are innate properties of the personality. They are formed in the process of education and social communication.
The degree to which conformism is expressed differs from culture to culture. Individualism is encouraged in American and European culture: “You are in charge of yourself. Follow your own desires". In Asian culture, collectivism is encouraged: “Your family is responsible for all its members.
Conformity and its role in team management
The strength and influence of the collective is largely given by the conformism (from the Latin. Similar, similar) of its members, i.e. their unconditional acceptance the existing order things prevailing in a group of opinions, adaptation to them on the basis of rejection of independent thoughts and actions.
As a result, a group like-mindedness is formed, based on the suppression by an individual of his real views on any phenomenon and support of general opinion in order not to disturb the harmony of the group. Since no one expresses opinions different from others, and does not offer a different, opposite point of view, everyone believes that everyone thinks the same.
The basis of conformism is the fear of ruining relations with the collective, being rejected by it, being excluded from it - ostracism, which in ancient times, for example, led to inevitable death.
The degree of conformism depends on the certainty and complexity of the problem being solved, the position of the person in the group, the meaning of the group for him. Thus, individuals with a high status are subject to less pressure, and the more attractive a group is for a person, the closer common goals are to him, the more he submits to it.
From the point of view of the interests of the collective as a whole, conformism has many positive sides: Provides survival in critical moments, facilitates organization joint activities people, relieves them of thinking about how to behave, giving behavior a standard in ordinary situations and predictability in non-standard situations, facilitates the integration of an individual into a team.
TO positive features conformism include:
the formation of unity in crisis situations allowing the organization to survive in difficult conditions;
simplifying the organization of joint activities by not thinking about behavior in standard circumstances and receiving instructions on behavior in non-standard circumstances;
the time of adaptation of a person in a team decreases;
the social group acquires a single face.
At the same time, the phenomenon of conformism is accompanied by negative features. Among them are the following:
a person's unquestioning adherence to the norms and rules of the majority leads to the loss of the ability to make independent decisions and independently navigate in new and unusual conditions;
conformism often serves as the moral and psychological foundation of totalitarian sects and totalitarian states;
conformism creates the conditions and prerequisites for the implementation of massacres and genocide, since individual participants in such actions are often unable to question their expediency or compliance with universal moral principles;
conformism often turns into a breeding ground for all kinds of prejudice and prejudice against minorities;
conformism significantly reduces a person's ability to make a significant contribution to culture or science, since it kills his ability to think in an original and creative way.
The degree of conformity of the individual depends on a number of circumstances:
the nature of interpersonal relationships (friendly or conflict);
the need and ability to make independent decisions;
the size of the team (the more numerous it is, the stronger the conformism);
the presence of a close-knit group that influences the rest of the team;
the current situation or the problem being solved ( difficult questions can be solved collectively);
the status of a person in the group (the higher the status, the less the manifestation of conformism).
REASONS FOR CONFORMANT BEHAVIOR
A social conformist is a person, a member of society, who, contrary to his views, thoughts, knowledge, under the influence of the opinion of the majority of members of the group, accepts this opinion as truly correct and agrees to accept it.
In other words, a conformist is a person who is used to obeying everyone unquestioningly. He has neither his own opinion, nor his own convictions, nor his own "I". If he has a friend, then he obeys him in everything. If he is in a group of people, then in everything he obeys its requirements. A conformist is a type of social opportunist.
Conformity plays a special role in the activities of members of the organization, since the ability of people to accept established procedures affects their ability to get accustomed to the team, the speed to get involved in work. It should be noted that conformism is based on group like-mindedness, which presupposes the suppression of a person's individuality, his own views in order to support common opinion.
MAIN TYPES OF CONFORMISTS
Based on the results of studies carried out by numerous psychologists-sociologists, it can be concluded that more than 30% of society members are inclined to manifest various kinds of conformism. Moreover, this phenomenon is not the same for everyone and depends on different kinds factors. One of the most basic factors influencing the level of manifest conformism in an individual is the nature of his personality, the tendency to change his opinion under the influence (pressure) of the majority opinion.
The first group of social conformists was made up of situational conformists. Representatives of this group differ from other members of society by the manifestation of the highest dependence on the group in specific situations. These people almost always, throughout their lives, follow the opinion of the majority. They completely lack their own opinion about the world around them. It is very easy to lead such people, to subordinate them to their will, even if it will enter into a direct acute conflict with his own. From the point of view of the development of society, these people represent its most dangerous contingent, because by their adaptability they very often contribute to the advancement in life extremely negative phenomena- genocide, tyranny, infringement of rights, etc.
The second group is represented by internal conformists, that is, people who, in the event of a conflict of their opinion with the opinion of the majority, take their side and internally assimilate this opinion, that is, they become one of the members of the majority. It should be said here that this kind of conformism is the result of overcoming the conflict with the group in favor of the group. Such people, as well as representatives of the first group, are extremely dangerous for society, which, in the presence of a large number of such representatives, degrades, turns into a community of slaves who are ready to weakly follow all instructions, orders, without hesitation to obey the opinion strong people... Representatives of these two types of conformists are a godsend for a man-leader who is a short time will be able to subjugate them to his will once and for all.
The third group of social conformists are external conformists who accept the opinion of the majority only outwardly, but in fact they continue to resist it. Such people really have their own opinion, but due to their weak character and cowardice, they are unable to defend it in a group. They are able to outwardly agree with the wrong, in their opinion, opinion in order to prevent conflict situation... Such people declare that they have agreed with the wrong opinion in order not to oppose themselves to the majority, not to be an outcast.
The fourth type of conformists are negativists (inside out conformists). In studies of conformity, one more possible position was discovered, which turned out to be available to fix at the experimental level. This is the position of negativism. When a group puts pressure on an individual, and he resists this pressure in everything, demonstrating at first glance an extremely independent position, at all costs denying all the standards of the group, then this is a case of negativism. Only at first glance, negativism looks like an extreme form of denial of conformity. In fact, as has been shown in many studies, negativism is not true independence. On the contrary, we can say that this is a specific case of conformity, so to speak, "conformity inside out": if an individual sets his goal at any cost to oppose the opinion of the group, then he actually again depends on the group, because he has to actively produce anti-group behavior, anti-group position or the norm, i.e. to be attached to group opinion, but only with the opposite sign (numerous examples of negativism are demonstrated, for example, by the behavior of adolescents). Such people are extremely dangerous for society, because in any case they do not recognize social values, they openly come into conflict with society even when they understand that their position is not correct.
Question
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CONFORMISM AND NONCONFORMISM
Conformity - a change in behavior or belief in response to a real or group belief. The phenomenon of conformism is associated with a group, with how a group can influence an individual. If a person agrees with the opinion of the majority, with the opinion or belief of the group, he receives support and approval. On the contrary: if he goes against the stream, then he meets with discontent, rejection, hatred. Such people are called nonconformists ... For the most part, they are leaders, idea generators, innovators. If a person is a leader in a team, then he will be allowed a slight deviation from the general behavior.
The nonconformist proposes new ideas, goes the untrodden path. This way of thinking is not popular. At first, he is not perceived or considered an idiot, but after a while people make these new decisions and calmly enjoy all the benefits of civilization. This is how the world works: first, hatred, ridicule, indignation, then curiosity, and then violent delight and reverence. The nonconformist is confronted with misunderstanding and rejection by society. Conformists, on the other hand, are the majority and, most likely, people are often simply afraid to change their lives, strive for the new, and forget the old. “Sometimes an unbending position is the result of paralysis” (Stanislav Jerzy Lec). In this case, the following options for attitudes to this problem are possible:
1) conscious, free acceptance of the norms and values of the group;
2) forced acceptance under the threat of group sanctions;
3) demonstration of antagonism in relation to the group (according to the "white crow" principle);
4) conscious, free rejection of group norms and values, taking into account the possible consequences (up to leaving the group).
It is important to keep in mind that all these options enable a person to decide whether to find their place in a group - either in the ranks of the law-abiding ones, or in the ranks of local rebels. Studies have shown that the second type of human behavior towards the group is very common. The forced acceptance by a person of the norms and values of a group under the threat of losing this group or his position in it is called conformism.
Conformity is the subordination of an individual's judgment or action to group pressure arising from a conflict between his own opinion and that of the group. In other words, a person demonstrates conformal behavior in a situation where he prefers to choose the opinion of the group to the detriment of his own.
Conformism in a general sense is defined as passive, adaptive acceptance of group standards in behavior, unconditional recognition of established orders, norms and rules, unconditional recognition of authorities. In this definition, conformism can mean three different things:
Expression of a person's lack of their own views, beliefs, weak character, opportunism;
Manifestation of similarity in behavior, agreement with the point of view, norms, value orientations of the majority of others;
The result of the pressure of group norms on the individual, when he begins to think, act like the rest of the group.
Conformity exists on a daily basis in small groups at work, in interest groups, in the family and affects individual attitudes and behavior change. The situational behavior of an individual under conditions of specific group pressure is called conformal behavior.
The degree of a person's conformity is conditioned and depends, first, on the significance of the expressed opinion for him: the more important it is for him, the lower the level of conformity. Secondly, from the authority of those who express certain views in the group: the higher their status and authority for the group, the higher the conformity of the members of this group. Third, conformity depends on the number of persons expressing a particular position, on their unanimity. Fourth, the degree of conformity is determined by the age and sex of a person - women are generally more conformable than men, and children more than adults.
Studies have shown that conformity is a controversial phenomenon, primarily because compliance the individual does not always indicate a real change in his perception. There are two types of behavior: rationalistic, when the opinion changes as a result of the individual's belief in something; motivated - if it demonstrates change.
Conformal human behavior can be viewed as negative in nature, meaning slavish, thoughtless adherence to group pressure, and as a conscious adaptation of the individual to social group... Two types of conformal behavior can be distinguished:
External subordination, manifested in a conscious adaptation to the opinion of the group. In this case, two options for the individual's well-being are possible:
1) is accompanied by an acute internal conflict;
2) occurs without any pronounced internal conflict;
Internal subordination, when a part of individuals perceives the opinion of the group as their own and adheres to it outside the group. There are the following types of internal subordination:
1) thoughtless acceptance of the wrong opinion of the group according to the principle "the majority is always right";
2) acceptance of the opinion of the group through the development of their own explanation of the choice made.
Thus, conformity to group norms is a positive factor in some situations, and negative in others. Adherence to some established standards of behavior is important, and sometimes essential, for effective group action. It is another matter if agreement with the norms of the group acquires the character of extracting personal benefit and turns into opportunism.
Conformity is a very important psychological mechanism for maintaining the internal homogeneity and integrity of the group. This is due to the fact that this phenomenon serves to maintain group constancy in the face of changes and development of the group. At the same time, it can be an obstacle to the development of individuals and social groups.
The phenomenon of conformism has been studied by many scientists. Experiments were carried out to identify group pressure. For example, experiments about segments, when a person, under the influence of a group, gave a deliberately false answer. Let's remember the "third wave" - strength in unity. The group gives its members protection and approval. In a group, a person receives support, but as soon as he deviates from the norm by behavior or statements, he immediately falls into disgrace and can be excluded from the group. Conformal behavior plays a double, both positive and negative role in the socialization of the individual. On the one hand, conformal behavior helps to correct erroneous opinions or behavior if the majority opinion is more correct. On the other hand, conformity interferes with the assertion of one's own independent behavior or opinion. However, a person cannot be only a conformist or non-conformist, it depends on the situation and the issue being resolved. Although there are stubborn ones who adhere to their opinion all their lives, as well as comrades who are ready to defend their truth with their fists. In addition, a person is not inclined to conformism, if the problem concerns him, affects important interests, especially significant points. Then he will defend his position.
What is conformism for? How can this phenomenon be used?
Management involves working in a group and with a group. Group members differ from each other in personal, physical and mental abilities. Everyone has their own interests, opportunities and talents. When solving any issue, solutions arise. Everyone is free to agree or disagree with the decision. But someone will make an independent decision, and someone will vote like the majority. “Like everyone else” is the main justification, wrote Leo Tolstoy. At the same time, when discussing another issue, the person who voted “like everyone else” will propose a different option. The foundations of conformism are laid in childhood (for example, such "truths" as "keep your head down, live like everyone else"). Society imposes norms and attitudes. I believe that there must be a choice, and a person's decision is his decision. If you act on a person correctly, he will consider even the imposed decisions as his own. Sometimes a small hint, a small detail is enough - and the person makes the imposed decision. Conformists help to make collective decisions, but they will never become leaders, generators of ideas, champions. On the contrary, a person who offers new ideas, takes risks and often rejects the established principles of relations in a group, as a rule, becomes a leader. People who defend their positions and adhere to their opinions (non-conformists) always remain in the minority. However, the minority influences the group in one way or another.
To determine how minority opinion affects group, many experiments have been carried out. At one time, the prevailing view was that the individual generally succumbed to group pressure. But some experiments have shown that subjects with a high status do not change their minds much, and the group norm deviates in their direction. If the respondents in a conflict situation find social support, their persistence and confidence in defending their ideas increase. It is important that the individual, defending his own point of view, knows that he is not alone. Contrary to the functionalist model of group influence, the interactionistic model is built taking into account the fact that in the group, under the influence of external social changes, the balance of forces is constantly changing, and a minority in the group can act as a conductor of these external social influences. In this regard, the asymmetry of the "minority-majority" relationship is leveled.
The term "minority" is used literally in research. This is the part of the group that has the least power to influence. But if the numerical minority manages to impose their point of view on other members of the group, they can become the majority. To influence a group, a minority must be guided by following conditions: consistency, steadfastness of behavior, unity of members at a particular moment and safety, repetition of a position in time.
The consistency of minority behavior has a noticeable impact, since the very fact of opposition resistance undermines harmony within the group. The minority, first, proposes the opposite of the majority; secondly, it deliberately demonstrates that group opinion is not absolute.
To answer the question of what tactics a minority should adhere to in order to maintain their influence, G. Munyi conducted an experiment, the general idea of which is as follows: when it comes to value orientation, the group is divided into a large number of subgroups with their various positions. Members of subgroups are guided not only by this group, but also by other groups to which they belong (social, professional).
To reach a compromise in the group definite meaning has a style of behavior of its members, divided into rigid and flexible. Rigid is uncompromising and categorical, schematic and harsh in its statements. This style can lead to a deterioration in the position of the minority. Flexible - soft in wording, it shows respect for the opinions of others, a willingness to compromise, and it is more effective. When choosing a style, one should take into account the specific situation and the tasks to be solved. So the minority using different methods, can significantly increase his role in the group and get closer to the set goal.
The processes of influence of the majority and the minority differ in the form of manifestation. The majority strongly influences the acceptance of his position by the individual, but at the same time the range of possible alternatives for him is limited by those offered by the majority. In this situation, the individual is not looking for other solutions, possibly more correct ones. The influence of the minority is less strong, but at the same time it stimulates the search for different points of view, contributing to the manifestation of diverse original solutions and increasing their efficiency.
The influence of the minority causes greater concentration, cognitive activity of the members of the group in case of divergence of views; emerging stressful situation smoothed out by looking for an optimal solution.
An important condition for the influence of a minority is the consistency of its behavior, confidence in the correctness of its position, logical argumentation. The perception and acceptance of the minority's point of view is much slower and more difficult than that of the majority. In our time, the transition from the majority to the minority and vice versa occurs very quickly, therefore the analysis of the influence of the minority and the majority reveals more fully the features of group dynamism.
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From the book Social Psychology the author Myers David J.NONCONFORMISM The cyclothymic child is a nonconformist by virtue of his love for freedom and independence. The schizoid kid resists social rules and norms because he does not understand them. For all his intelligence, he cannot understand the simplest social
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From the book Cheat Sheet on Social Psychology the author Cheldyshova Nadezhda Borisovna From the author's book47. Conformism and group pressure Conformism is a socio-psychological phenomenon of changing behavior or beliefs under the influence of group pressure. Conformism is one of the phenomena of group dynamics. Types of conformism: 1) compliance or external public
Is conformism good or bad? This is one of the questions that have no scientific answer. There are two kinds of conformity. External conformism (compliance, adaptation) is characterized by external agreement with the opinion of the group or behavior corresponding to group norms, in which internally a person shows disagreement, but does not demonstrate it, so as not to enter into open confrontation with the group. Many people in society behave as is customary, while not approving in their souls what they do (for example, putting on a tie or dress, although they don't like it). This kind of not sincere, outward conformism is called compliance. A person gives in in order to deserve encouragement or to avoid punishment, if he obeys a clearly expressed order, this is obedience. With external conformity, the person returns to his original opinion after the pressure of the group is released.
Internal conformism (approval, consent) is characterized by a change in the initial position in favor of the group. Another situation - a person sincerely believes in what the group is forcing him to do. This internal conformity is called approval. Approval sometimes follows a concession.
Outwardly similar "conformal" behavior may be based on fundamentally different psychological mechanisms. Psychological mechanisms internal conformism can serve:
identification (full or partial assimilation to an interaction partner or a group as a whole due to a positive emotional attitude towards them);
internalization, that is, internal assimilation of the attitudes and values of other people or the group as a whole, their acceptance as their own.
With internal conformity, the individual retains the opinion of the group - it continues to be a source of orientation and guidance for him - even after the group has ceased to exert pressure.
Conformity depends on the characteristics of the group: people show the greatest degree of conformism when they are faced with the unanimous opinion of three or more people who are attractive enough and have a high status.
The highest level of conformity is also manifested when the answers are given publicly and in the absence of preliminary statements.
The level of conformism changes not only depending on the situation, but also depending on the individual. Psychology has investigated a number of factors that determine the level of conformism of a person. The main factors are gender, personality and culture.
Experiments have shown that women, on average, are slightly more conformable than men. This circumstance is largely due to the gender system. Gender roles prescribe a man to be more aggressive, strive to achieve high status, exert influence, and a woman to be soft, compliant, and take care of interpersonal relationships.
Experiments aimed at studying the significance of personal characteristics in the manifestation of conformism have revealed that global personality characteristics do not allow predicting specific manifestations of conformism and describe well the average tendencies of conformity.
Conformity and obedience are universal phenomena. and yet their degree of expression varies from culture to culture. European and American cultures encourage individualism. Asian cultures and third world cultures are more inclined to teach collectivism. An analysis of 133 studies in 17 countries by Rod Bond and Peter Smith confirms that cultural values have a clear influence on the level of conformity. Compared to people in individualist countries, collectivists are more susceptible to the influence of others.