When asked to briefly define obedience and conformity, the similarities between the two were strikingly very close, but slightly differed in how each are exemplify. Obedience can be described as a behavior demonstrated to satisfy or submit to someone that is in authority. Conformity involves people changing their behaviors or attitudes to comply with those of others in order to gain acceptance.
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Obedience differs from conformity in the sense that the authoritarian is making a request, demand, or command. The person making the request is not asking for one to agree or disagree, but simply to perform a specific task requested. Conformity, however, is a conscious behavior shift to avoid conflict and the fear of being excluded or rejected. Obedience and conformity can be a positive aspect within an organization or group because people have a need to form some type of social identity. Conformity is neither good nor bad, but most people tend to conform without being aware of it. Conforming to the organization's basic values can certainly be an attribute to person's self esteem. If a person feels they are within compliance with company policies and guidelines, then that person is more apt to execute specific job requirements with peak performance. This satisfies the worker's social needs of acceptance to where they have a sense of belonging. .
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Organizations or groups that do not have enough obedience or conformity may cause conflicts within the organization or group. Conflicts that arise within groups can be a positive experience provided that the disagreeing parties reach a consensus through collaboration or compromise. Conflicts can develop and improve an individual's communication skills as well as provide positive alternative ways to resolve conflicts. .
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There can be some drawbacks to having obedience and conformity in the organization. Authority figures are likely to influence others to become a part of the norms within the organization.