What I will remember... Social Psychology

I will remember several principles of social psychology; groupthink and conformity, for years to come. I am in groups all the time, with friends, in school and in work, so these aspects of social psychology are very relevant to my life.

First, I will remember groupthink. Groupthink is when you are in a group of people and everyone tends to just "go with the flow" instead of actually thinking critically about decisions they will make. Now that I know about how groupthink works, I will be more careful to avoid it. I know that I will have to actively engage in dissent with the group.

Second, I will remember conformity. Conformity is when people change their behavior as a result of pressure from other people within a group. It is so easy to fall prey to conformity, especially when you are just trying to fit in and get along with other people. However, I must remain wary of this common mistake. I cannot compromise my values or beliefs just to fit in or make friends. I must not conform too much, or it could be dangerous.

I will be wary of groupthink and conformity and will be sure not to let them trip me up in the future.

Jennifer McLean