Home · Values · The 10 values · Conformity
Values · Conservation
Conformity
Respect for norms — not crossing or hurting others.
People who prioritize conformity value restraining actions and impulses that might upset or harm others, or violate social norms and expectations.
What conformity is
The motivational goal of conformity is restraining actions, inclinations and impulses that might upset or harm others and violate social expectations or norms. Schwartz links it to the need to inhibit impulses that threaten getting along. It is the value of those who prize good manners, respect and living up to what's expected — keeping harmony without running anyone over.
When it's a high priority
- You try to follow the rules and not bother others
- Being polite and respecting norms matters a lot
- You avoid doing what people would consider wrong
- You control impulses so as not to displease those around you
When it's in the background
- You question rules that don't make sense to you
- You feel free to stand apart from expectations
- You prioritize authenticity over social approval
- You don't mind disagreeing openly
Don't mix these up · cross them in your Atlas
Conformity is about restraining impulses and actions that upset others or break norms — social self-control in the here and now. Different from Tradition (honoring customs handed down), Security (stability and predictability) and the trait Conscientiousness (being disciplined and organized by disposition). Following the rule ≠ preserving the past ≠ being methodical — see it in your Atlas.
How conformity shows up in your life
At work and in your career
It works well in environments with clear rules, defined roles and cooperation; it values discipline and respect. It pairs with tradition and security (Conservation) and competes with self-direction and stimulation, which call for independence and novelty.
In relationships
You're reliable, caring and careful not to hurt; you prize harmony. The risk is going quiet and giving in too much to avoid conflict. Growth comes from setting limits and saying what you think without feeling you're breaking the rules.
In everyday decisions
Day to day, you keep agreements, respect norms and avoid friction. Be careful about swallowing what needs to be said just to avoid displeasing.
Tensions and growth
Conformity is compatible with tradition and security and competes directly with self-direction and stimulation (Openness to Change). It is a pole of conservation. Growth here is honoring coexistence without erasing yourself to fit expectations.
People and settings where this shines ILLUSTRATIVE
People who sustain cooperation and mutual respect — in teams, communities and roles that depend on trust.
Which values guide you?
Take the free Values test — 40 statements, no sign-up, your compass instantly.
Take the test →The other values
10The 10 valuesoverview
Frequently asked questions
Can I value opposite things at the same time?
Partly. In Schwartz's circle, opposite values compete with each other — prioritizing one strongly tends to leave its opposite in the background. You can shift with context, but you rarely live both poles at their peak at once.
Do my values change over time?
Yes. Value priorities are relatively stable, but they reorganize with life stage, experiences and context. Treat the result as a snapshot of what guides you today, not a fixed label.
Is having conformity as a low value bad?
No. Prioritizing some values naturally places others in the background — it's a choice of emphasis, not a flaw. A low value only means it guides your choices less right now.