Social Behavior 4

Going along with the group because you think they

know more than you do. You change your own beliefs or attitudes because you think

that the group is right.

Example: Your friends tell you

that your favorite pair of shoes are not

fashionable anymore. You had no idea, so

thank them for letting you know!

Informational Influence In some situations, we are uncertain about how to think or act. We use the behavior of others to help us figure out what is going on in the

situation. We conform because we see others as a

source of information.

“Why are you standing up?”

Informational Influence: When does it happen?

1. When we think other people are experts.

2. When we feel unsure about something or the answers are unclear.

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Informational Influence: When does it happen?

When we feel unsure about something. When the answers are unclear.

In an experiment, researchers briefly

showed test subjects the picture

of a criminal.

Researchers made a police line-up where the suspects looked very similar. When they asked test subjects

which one was the criminal, subjects were more likely go along with a group of actors (choosing the wrong

answer), when they felt uncertain.

Informational Influence: When does it happen?

When we feel unsure about something. When the answers are unclear.

The longer the test subjects got to see the picture of the criminal, the less likely they were to follow the group and choose the wrong answer.

Thus, uncertainty causes people to rely on others for information.

Normative Influence

Going along with the group so they will like you.

Sometimes you change your actions to match the group

even though you do not agree with them.

Example: Your friends found a new band that they

like. You don’t like this band, but you say that you do and listen to the music to please

your friends.

In other situations, we want to be part of a group so we feel a sense of belonging. We don’t like the feeling of being

different or isolated from others.

“When I saw everybody

stand up I felt like I needed to join them, otherwise I’m

excluded.”

Normative Influence: When does it happen?

1. When the group size is 3 or more.

2. When the group members are important (when they are family, friends, or people we love, respect, or admire).

3. When we have low-self esteem or fear of rejection/isolation.

4. When the group seems to unanimously agree.

What Type of Influence?

You go to a play and really hate it, but at the end, everyone in the

crowd gives a loud standing ovation. You stand up and clap too.

What Type of Influence?Even though

it’s impractical, plastic bag

tops are the most popular new fashion trend this year. You wear one

because you want to be as

cool as everyone else.

What Type of Influence?There are lots of restaurants on Main Street, but only one has a giant line waiting outside. You decide to go to the restaurant with the long line because it must have the best food.