When we think about social influence, we often think about peer pressure, and the effect it has on our behavior. However, there is another kind of social influence that can have a significant impact on our behavior, and that is informational social influence.
What is Informational Social Influence?
Informational social influence is the phenomenon where we conform to the opinions or behavior of others because we believe that they have more information or knowledge than we do. This type of influence occurs when we are unsure about what to do or believe, and we look to others for guidance.
Examples of Informational Social Influence
One example of informational social influence is when we are in a group, and we are unsure about how to behave or what to believe. In this scenario, we may look to others in the group to see how they are behaving or what they believe. If we believe that they have more information or knowledge than we do, we may conform to their behavior or beliefs.
Another example of informational social influence is when we are in a new situation, and we are unsure about what to do. In this scenario, we may look to others who are more experienced or knowledgeable to see how they behave or what they do. If we believe that they have more information or knowledge than we do, we may conform to their behavior or actions.
Factors that Influence Informational Social Influence
There are several factors that can influence the extent to which we experience informational social influence. These factors include:
- The expertise of the group: If we believe that the group is knowledgeable or experienced, we are more likely to conform to their opinions or behaviors.
- The size of the group: The larger the group, the more likely we are to conform to their opinions or behaviors.
- Ambiguity or uncertainty: If we are uncertain or ambiguous about what to do or believe, we are more likely to conform to the opinions or behaviors of others.
Conclusion
In conclusion, informational social influence is a powerful force that can have a significant impact on our behavior and beliefs. It occurs when we look to others for guidance because we believe that they have more information or knowledge than we do. Factors that influence the extent to which we experience informational social influence include the expertise of the group, the size of the group, and ambiguity or uncertainty. By understanding the role that informational social influence plays in our behavior, we can better navigate social situations and make more informed decisions.
