On Conformity
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It started with an argument between three classmates of mine. The argument? Is there such a thing as non-conformity, or are the non-conformists conforming to conformity?
Conformity – 1) to act according to law or rule; be in agreement with the generally accepted standards; 2) be like; make similar; correspond.
We all conform to the norms—standards for a certain group—of our society. For instance, it is a norm to take off your hate in front of the American flag, during the National Anthem. It’s not a rule, but it is an expected behavior. But is there a certain line of non—conformity, especially in the adolescent stage?
Identity is often characterized in terms of one’s own interpersonal characteristics, such as self-definition or personality traits, the roles and relationships one takes on in various interactions, and one’s personal values or moral beliefs.
Identity is a central task that begins in infancy and ends with the culmination of one’s lie. Its role in adolescent development has been particularly important as youth come to know and define themselves in ways that were not possible during their childhood. More specifically, the ability to reflect on one’s own thoughts, and hence on one’s self, adds a new dimension to self-discovery.
Adolescents especially want to draw attention to themselves, since it is at this time that they feel as if they are the most misunderstood and loneliest creatures on the planet. Of course, we know they’re not, but you can’t stop them from believing that. Why wouldn’t they want to be noticed for some uniqueness in order to not feel lonely?
In one way or another, many people will: (1) Claim they are not normal (2) Preferably think of themselves as not ordinary or (3) Hope to be at least a little better than average in any number of ways.
People tend to want