nonconformity

Nonconformity is the act or state of not conforming to the norms, beliefs, or expectations of a social group, organization, or culture. It can be voluntary or compelled, and it stands in contrast to conformity, which denotes adherence to established standards.

In sociology and psychology, nonconformity describes behavior, identities, or opinions that depart from prevailing norms. It can reflect personal autonomy, moral conviction, or creative dissent. Nonconformists may be perceived as deviant, resist authority, or contribute to social change, but they may also face sanctions, marginalization, or conflict with others. The value of nonconformity often depends on the legitimacy of the norm and the costs of deviation.

Nonconformity appears across domains such as dress, speech, political views, religion, and lifestyle. It may be a deliberate challenge to authority or the emergence of alternative subcultures. It is not inherently good or bad; assessments depend on outcomes and cultural context.

Historically, the term also has religious connotations. In English history, Nonconformists were Protestants who did not conform to the Church of England, including groups such as Puritans, Baptists, and Presbyterians, influencing education, politics, and social life. In modern discourse, nonconformity is often discussed in relation to civil rights, arts, and youth culture.

In geology, nonconformity denotes a specific type of unconformity where younger sedimentary rocks lie atop older metamorphic or igneous rocks, indicating a substantial gap in deposition and erosion between rock formation events.