Conformity

What has conformity to do with self-defense? It goes to the mind-set that influences group dynamics. The power of conformity speaks to the fear of judgement and right or wrong the power of conformity drives us to go with the group even when wrong. Groups can be like mind-altering substances. Those who conform have less brain activity in the fontal decision making regions and more in the area associated with perceptions. It is easy to get caught up in a group situation. The emotions involved speak to the perception center and they are contagious. 

To stand alone, i.e. think of the survival instincts where the group means life and singularity means death, is to activate the primitive, powerful, and unconscious feelings of rejection. To be rejected by the group means vulnerability and in the survival instincts, death. 

Think of the systems used today such as juries and elections where the majority rules. This system depends on that one dissenting voice yet this theory speaks to the suppression of that decision making brain part for the perception centers whereby a majority decides, whether right or wrong, will pull in everyone except the one lone determined individualist to go with that decision. That one person in most cases will not sway the group. 

Then place on top of this the strong emotional effect of the apprehension of the individual to go against the group, i.e. the evaluation apprehensive effect, no one wants to be embarrassed by dissenting even if their perception part of the brain would allow the decision making part involvement. 

This helps me to understand why so many groups or factions tend to refuse to change their belief systems even if wrong or inaccurate. It is a group thing with emphasis on wanting to be a member of said group and remaining a member of said group at all costs. 

Therefore it would seem logical that training and practice needs to address this on both sides. The practitioner must understand that right or wrong matters not but the overall group dynamics will drive actions within that group. As to the individual you recognize and accept this so as to, hopefully, catch it before you succumb.

When a mob goes berserk those exposed to its influences may find it almost impossible to not join in. This may explain why so many perceived persons who live normal, calm, happy lives can be suddenly thrust into a world of conflict and violence. The unpleasantness of peer pressure can actively change your view of a problem, situation or decision.