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Questions and Answers
What is the primary reason why people exhibit conformity in social influence?
Which of the following factors has a significant influence on individuals?
What is the primary goal of compliance in social influence?
What is the primary focus of Social Identity Theory in social influence?
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What is the primary goal of internalization in social influence?
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According to Cognitive Dissonance Theory, why do people change their behavior in social influence?
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Study Notes
Social Influence
Definition
- Social influence refers to the way in which people's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are affected by the presence of others.
Types of Social Influence
- Conformity: Changing one's behavior to fit in with a group, often due to real or imagined social pressure.
- Obedience: Following orders or commands from an authority figure, even if they go against one's own values or beliefs.
- Compliance: Changing one's behavior to gain reward or avoid punishment.
- Internalization: Adopting the views or behaviors of others because they align with one's own values or beliefs.
Factors Affecting Social Influence
- Group Size: Larger groups tend to have a greater influence on individuals.
- Unanimity: When everyone in a group agrees, it can increase the pressure to conform.
- Social Norms: The unwritten rules that govern behavior in a group or society.
- Authority Figures: People in positions of power or authority can have a significant influence on others.
Theories of Social Influence
- Social Identity Theory: People's sense of self and belonging to a group can lead to conformity and influence.
- Cognitive Dissonance Theory: People may change their behavior to avoid feelings of discomfort or inconsistency between their attitudes and actions.
Real-World Examples of Social Influence
- Asch Experiment (1951): Participants conformed to a clearly incorrect answer when surrounded by others who gave the same answer.
- Stanford Prison Experiment (1971): College students took on roles of prisoners and guards, illustrating the power of social influence on behavior.
- Advertising and Marketing: Companies use social influence to promote products and ideas.
Resisting Social Influence
- Critical Thinking: Encouraging individuals to think critically and make informed decisions.
- Diversifying Social Networks: Exposing oneself to different perspectives and groups to reduce the influence of any one group.
- Promoting Autonomy: Encouraging individuals to take ownership of their decisions and actions.
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Description
Test your knowledge of social influence, including types of influence, factors that affect it, and theories that explain it. Learn how to resist social influence and make informed decisions.
