The Role of Inner Self-Criticism in Predicting Group Conformity among College Students

Self-criticism represents a persistent tendency to evaluate oneself harshly and focus on perceived personal inadequacies. Such internal cognitive processes may influence how individuals behave within social environments, particularly in contexts where group norms and social approval play an important role. The present study examined whether inner self-criticism predicts group conformity among college students. A quantitative correlational design was employed with a sample of 200 college students aged 18–25 years. Inner self-criticism was measured using the Forms of Self-Criticising/Attacking and Self-Reassuring Scale (FSCRS), while conformity-related behaviour was assessed using the Approval Motive Scale developed by Tripathi. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and regression analysis. The findings revealed a significant negative correlation between inner self-criticism and approval motive (r = −.435, p < .01). Regression analysis further indicated that inner self-criticism significantly predicted group conformity, accounting for 18.9% of the variance in approval motive scores. The results highlight the role of internal self-evaluative processes in shaping social behaviour among young adults and emphasize the importance of considering cognitive factors when examining conformity in group contexts.