Saturday, February 20, 2010
4.3
The most interesting idea that I came across in the reading this week was the idea of "pressure for conformity". I find it interesting because even in small groups, the idea that you should conform to that which is popular can prevent a group from being successful. If you take into account that group work, for the most part, is a project that needs to be completed as a collective (even if you are graded on it individually, or something similar) then you can kind of understand the need to conform. However, by "conforming," it doesn't mean that you have to lose yourself as an individual. The chapter talked about people generally have trouble in groups getting past individual opinions and ideas in order to come to a conclusion. Yet you can still retain your individuality without the need to cause drama within your group. Conforming isn't always a bad thing; it just has to be taken into context. Conforming within a group can be a good thing, and can lead to successful results.
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I also found this section intriguing. “Conforming” has been a hot topic for many years. Not only is it seen in the “small group” arena, but also in everyday life. You noted that conforming can harm a group. I agree with this. Creativity would be hindered without each members individual contributions. In everyday life, conforming can take place in any social group. Conforming and pressure go hand in hand. An example can be setting aside your ethnic group and becoming part of another one like many people did when they first came to America. You stated that conforming isn’t always a negative thing, and I would agree. It can be positive.
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