PLS HELP How does your communication style change based on whom you are interacting with? Is this something you do consciously? Why or why not?

yes it does.

one may want to appear more sophisticated and well read in front of those with higher social or intellectual status in order to gain approval and self worth.

I believe it's usually subconscious, as many want to make a good impression on someone, and may do that, for example, by refraining from using slang whilst in a job interview.

this is often referred to as "code switching".

your communication style does change

Explanation:

I usually do it around someone i want to make a good impression on. If you want to make a good impression the way you communicate with that person is going to make an impact and your communication style is going to change around who you’re hanging out with.