What is the difference between conformity and compliance?

Conformity refers to the tendency to change one’s behavior, attitudes, or beliefs in order to match those of others, typically as a result of social pressure or the desire to fit in. This process often happens implicitly, meaning individuals may not even be aware they are adjusting their behavior in response to group norms or expectations.

On the other hand, compliance involves changing one’s behavior as a response to a direct request from another person. The change in compliance is generally explicit and deliberate, as individuals recognize that they are being asked to do something specific and choose to comply with that request.

The distinction outlined in the selected answer captures the essence of these two concepts. Conformity is about aligning with the behavior or norms of a group due to social influences, while compliance is specifically about responding to direct directives or requests from others. Understanding these differences is crucial in social psychology, as they highlight how social influence shapes behavior in distinct ways.