Conformity VS Individuality

Are we a generation doomed to be defined by labels and definitions?

Rylea Whiteford

Conformity can also be simply defined as "yielding to group pressures" (Crutchfield, 1955). Group pressure may take different forms, for example bullying, persuasion, teasing, criticism etc. Conformity is also known as major influence, but is conformity really the new individuality?

Today, society puts out an image of how one is supposed to look and act, bringing in stereotypes for everyone to act by, everyone is labeled. Everyone nowadays deals with the pressure of being judged or trying to fit in. Conformity involves developing attitudes, opinions, and behaviors to match the attitude of a specific group. Most people conform to the standard of the 'normal' often without even knowing that they are doing so.

Every generation, in one way or another, has its own identifying feature, a style, a sound, a way of life, or even an event that can, sum up a culture in a particular place and/or time.

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For example, in the movie 'Dead Poets Society', the boy's from the movie were used to being told what to do in order to please their parents and most people in authority. They would conform to most rules to avoid getting the strap and/or other forms of discipline. This is shown in the film 'Dead Poets Society' by Charlie getting the strap by the principle.

Some students however started to stand up for what they believed in, they wanted a say in what happened in their future. Some of them want to be a part of planning it and the final decisions for the future goals and studies. Neil Perry wanted to become an actor, Charlie changed his name to Newanda, Todd Anderson stood up for Mr. Keeting and Mr.