Rejection sensitivity and conformity in emerging adults: The moderating role of impulsivity

BACKGROUND: Emerging adulthood is a critical developmental period marked by identity formation, heightened social sensitivity and susceptibility to peer influence. Although rejection sensitivity is recognized as a predictor of maladaptive social behaviour, the conditions under which it translates into conforming behaviour remain poorly understood. OBJECTIVE: The current study examined whether impulsivity moderates the relationship between rejection sensitivity and conforming behaviour in emerging adults. METHOD: A cross-sectional design was employed with a convenience sample of 361 emerging adults aged 18-25 years (M = 20.6, SD = 2.04). Rejection sensitivity, conformity and impulsivity were assessed using Adult Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire, Information and Normative conformity Scale and Barratt Impulsiveness Scale. Moderation analysis was conducted with mean-centred predictors; simple slopes were examined at -1 SD, mean, and + 1 SD of impulsivity. RESULTS: Rejection sensitivity was positively correlated with conformity (r = 0.223, p < .001) and impulsivity (r = 0.181, p < .001). The Rejection Sensitivity × Impulsivity interaction was significant (B = 0.007, SE = 0.003, p = .029). The effect of rejection sensitivity on conformity was significant at high (B = 0.242, p < .001) and average impulsivity (B = 0.168, p < .001), but non-significant at low impulsivity (B = 0.095, p = .056). CONCLUSION: Findings support a dual-vulnerability account whereby rejection sensitivity and high impulsivity (reflecting poor self-regulatory control) jointly amplify conformity risk. Multi-component interventions for high-impulsivity youth should jointly target rejection sensitivity and impulse control. Future research should employ longitudinal and experimental designs to test directionality with appropriate rigour.