informational social influence
influence resulting from one’s willingness to accept others’ opinions about reality
Informational social influence refers to the tendency to conform to the opinions or behaviors of others because we believe they have more accurate knowledge or information than we do. Essentially, we look to others for guidance or direction when we are unsure about how to behave in a particular situation.
This kind of influence can be particularly strong when we are faced with a situation that is unfamiliar or ambiguous. For example, if we are in a new city and are not sure which restaurant to go to, we may look to the locals or online reviews to guide our decision. Alternatively, if we are in a classroom and are unsure about how to approach a complex problem, we may look to our classmates or the teacher for guidance.
Research suggests that informational social influence can be beneficial because it allows us to learn from others and make more informed decisions. However, it can also lead to conformity or groupthink, where individuals may suppress their own opinions or ideas in order to fit in with the group. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the potential biases or limitations of relying too heavily on the opinions of others.
More Answers:
Understanding the Three Types of Social Influence: Conformity, Compliance, and ObedienceWhy Social Loafing Occurs in Group Work & How to Prevent It: Insights from Group Dynamics
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