What is social influence?

Social influence refers to the way individuals change their behavior in social settings. This concept encompasses a variety of phenomena, including conformity, compliance, and obedience, where individuals may alter their actions or attitudes in response to the presence or expectations of others. The definition reflects the dynamic interaction between people in social contexts, where the behavior of one person can affect the actions and thoughts of others.

The notion of social influence is fundamental to understanding how group dynamics operate, as it considers the roles of social norms, peer pressure, and authority figures in shaping individual behavior. It highlights that behavior is not just a product of personal beliefs or intrinsic motivations but can be significantly molded by the social environment.

While changing personal beliefs, the influence of media on public opinion, and methods of persuasion used in marketing can all relate to aspects of social influence, they are more specific contexts or applications rather than capturing the broader and fundamental aspect of behavior change in social contexts. Therefore, identifying social influence primarily as the way individuals behave differently due to their social surroundings provides a clearer understanding of the concept in the realm of social psychology.