Which of the following alternatives correctly defines the concept of conformity in social psychology?

• A. Conformity describes the act of resisting group pressure and maintaining one's own beliefs.
• B. Conformity refers to the tendency of individuals to adjust their attitudes, beliefs, or behaviors to match those of a group.
• C. Conformity is the tendency to help others without expecting any reward or recognition.
• D. Conformity is the process by which people actively persuade others to change their opinions through direct argument.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of conformity in social psychology, which involves how individuals change their behavior or beliefs in response to real or imagined group pressure.
2. Step 2: Review each alternative definition carefully to see if it aligns with this understanding of conformity.
3. Step 3: Identify that conformity is about adjusting one's attitudes, beliefs, or behaviors to align with a group, rather than resisting group pressure or helping others without reward.
4. Step 4: Recognize that conformity does not involve actively persuading others through direct argument; instead, it is about passive adjustment to group norms.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct definition of conformity is the tendency of individuals to adjust their attitudes, beliefs, or behaviors to match those of a group.