Gender can influence the likelihood and nature of compliance, although these effects are complex and multifaceted. Research suggests that women are generally more likely to comply than men, especially in situations that involve social harmony and interpersonal relationships. This tendency can be attributed to traditional gender roles and socialisation, where women are often encouraged to be cooperative, nurturing, and to value group harmony. However, this is not a universal rule and can vary depending on the context and the specific nature of the compliance. For example, in professional settings or situations involving moral judgments, women may be less likely to comply if it conflicts with their principles or professional integrity. On the other hand, men may exhibit higher compliance in situations where hierarchy and authority are involved, aligning with traditional male socialisation that emphasises respect for authority and leadership. It's important to note that these tendencies are influenced by cultural norms and societal expectations and are subject to change as gender roles evolve.

Compliance manifests differently in individualistic and collectivistic cultures due to varying societal values and norms. In individualistic cultures, where independence and personal autonomy are highly valued, compliance might be less prevalent or more covert, as overt conformity can be seen as a loss of individuality. People in these cultures might comply in situations where they seek to avoid conflict or gain social approval, but they may also be more willing to express dissent or maintain personal beliefs in the face of group pressure. In contrast, in collectivistic cultures, where harmony and group cohesion are prioritised, compliance is often more openly accepted and even encouraged. The emphasis on group consensus and maintaining social harmony means individuals in these cultures are more likely to outwardly conform to group norms, even if these conflict with personal beliefs. Additionally, the consequences of non-compliance, such as social ostracism or disapproval, can be more severe in collectivistic cultures, further incentivising compliance. Understanding these cultural differences is crucial in global and multicultural contexts, as it affects interpersonal interactions, business practices, and educational approaches.

The online environment significantly affects compliance behaviour, mainly due to the nature of digital interactions and the presence of virtual communities. Online, individuals are often part of multiple groups with varying norms and expectations, which can lead to different levels of compliance. The anonymity and distance provided by the online medium can sometimes reduce the pressure to comply, as individuals may feel less directly accountable to the group. However, in other instances, especially in tightly-knit online communities or social media platforms, the pressure to conform can be intense. Here, compliance may be driven by the desire for acceptance, fear of public criticism, or the influence of digital "authority" figures like influencers or popular users. Additionally, the rapid spread of information and opinions online can create a bandwagon effect, where individuals quickly align with the dominant viewpoint, demonstrating a form of digital compliance. Understanding compliance in the online realm is particularly relevant in the context of internet culture, marketing strategies, and the spread of misinformation.

While compliance is fundamentally a temporary and superficial form of conformity, under certain circumstances, it can lead to longer-term behavioural changes. This is particularly true when compliance occurs repeatedly over an extended period, creating a habit or norm of behaviour. For example, if an individual consistently complies with a group's norms, over time, these behaviours can become more ingrained and habitual, even in the absence of immediate group pressure. Additionally, consistent compliance might lead to a gradual shift in an individual's attitudes or beliefs, especially if the compliant behaviours are rewarded or positively reinforced. This phenomenon can be explained by cognitive dissonance theory, which suggests that when there is a discrepancy between one's actions and beliefs, an individual might change their beliefs to align with their actions to reduce psychological discomfort. However, it is important to note that this kind of longer-term change is more an exception than the rule in compliance and usually requires specific conditions, such as continuous reinforcement or lack of conflicting internal beliefs.

Compliance is particularly relevant in the context of peer pressure among adolescents. During adolescence, the influence of peers significantly increases, often shaping behaviour and choices. Compliance in this age group is driven by the intense desire to fit in and be accepted by one's peers, which can lead to conforming to behaviours or attitudes that align with the group, even when these are in conflict with personal beliefs or values. This phenomenon is evident in various scenarios, such as adopting certain fashion trends, engaging in risky behaviours, or conforming to group opinions on social and cultural matters. The temporary and superficial nature of compliance is highlighted in adolescence, as young individuals might frequently change their outward behaviours to align with different peer groups, depending on the social context. This age group is also a critical period for identity formation, making the impact of compliance on personal development and self-esteem more pronounced. Understanding the dynamics of compliance in peer pressure can help in addressing issues like bullying, substance abuse, and the development of critical thinking skills among adolescents.