What is the difference between compliance and internalisation?

Both compliance and internalisation are types of conformity. However, compliance occurs when an individual changes their beliefs or behaviour in order to gain approval/avoid disapproval from others. Internalisation occurs when an individual seeks self-validation; they evaluate their existing beliefs and may change their viewpoints depending on whether they agree with the majority. There are differences in the motivating factors and future behaviours between compliance and internalisation: a motivating factor for compliance may be to fit in with a group, whereas for internalisation this may be to find the best way to react to a situation. Future behaviour for compliance may depend on the presence of peers, where the individual would only comply when peers are nearby. However for internalisation, this new behaviour would be exhibited regardless of whether peers are present.

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Answered by Lydia M. Psychology tutor

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