Based on the first two paragraphs of the article, "Conformity. by Charlotte Harrison:

Question

Conformity, or acting the way most other people in one's social group act, often grows out of a person's desire for security and belonging in a group - usually a group of similar age, culture, religion, or educational background. Being different from the group carries the risk of social rejection, a deep fear of many people. The drive to conform is often particularly powerful for adolescents, for whom acceptance by peers can be a primary goal, but it affects people of all ages. However, some studies suggest that conformity decreases with age.
Although the word often has a negative connotation, conformity is not necessarily a bad thing. People's tendency to conform helps society function smoothly in many ways. For example, when drivers follow the rules of the road, it enables safe transportation. If the members of a team conform to the norms of interpersonal interaction, they enable effective communication and collaboration.

Which of the following best describes the central idea of "Conformity" by Charlotte Harrison?

• Societies can maintain order without any forms of conformity.

• People conform in order to fit in based on societal pressure.

• People who conform lack individual independence.

• Conforming is a conscious decision people make.

Answer 1

People conform in order to fit in based on societal pressure.