Which term is used to describe the influence of group pressure on individual behavior?

The term that describes the influence of group pressure on individual behavior is conformity. Conformity occurs when an individual adjusts their beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors to align with the norms or expectations of a group. This phenomenon is often observed when individuals feel compelled to fit in, whether it is to gather acceptance or avoid rejection from the group. The classic studies on conformity, such as those conducted by Solomon Asch, illustrate how individuals can be swayed by group consensus, even when that consensus contradicts their own perceptions or beliefs.

In contrast, compliance refers to a change in behavior as a result of a direct request from someone, but it does not necessarily involve an internal change in beliefs. Obedience is a more specific form of social influence that occurs when an individual follows direct orders from an authority figure. Disobedience represents the rejection or failure to follow such orders or pressures from the group or authority. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in psychology as they reveal different dynamics of social influence and personal agency in various contexts.