Have you ever found yourself succumbing to peer pressure? Or perhaps you’ve observed a friend doing so? Understanding the forces that drive us to conform can benefit our mental and emotional wellbeing in today’s social world.
Social influence is a primary element of life, where we are continually exposed to various types of influence. Some of this influence is external, while others come from within us. Social influence can undoubtedly be used for good, but it can also be misused and may have a detrimental impact.
The two main types of social influence are informational and normative. Informational influence occurs when a person is uncertain, and they look to others to clarify the situation. Normative influence, on the other hand, pertains to conforming to others’ expectations to be accepted and fit in with the group. In this article, we will explore how to distinguish the two types of social influence and explain how to use this knowledge to your advantage.
Informational Influence
Informational influence occurs when an individual is unsure of the correct response to a specific situation or decision. In this instance, the individual may look to others for guidance. Informational influence generally happens during a crisis or unfamiliar circumstances. Seeking advice and information from others in such situations can be beneficial and can lead to a better understanding of the situation.
A good example of informational influence is turning to a nutrition specialist to help you create a healthy diet plan. The specialist’s expertise makes them a credible source of information, and their advice can help you achieve your health goals.
Normative Influence
Normative influence happens when individuals adjust their actions and behaviours to fit in with a group’s norms. Normative influence is often reinforced by our sense of belonging. It can be both good and bad, depending on the circumstances. Normative influence can sometimes lead to irrational decision-making, including situations where a person may follow the crowd, even if the decision is harmful.
One classic example of normative influence is bullying. A single individual may become the target of everyone’s teasing, which can be humiliating and challenging to overcome. But if the individual fights back and sends the message that the teasing and bullying are unacceptable, others may follow suit.
Distinguishing between the two
It can be challenging to differentiate between informational and normative influence, as both are interwoven. However, through the use of careful observation, one can recognize the difference. When someone is experiencing informational influence, they are usually looking for a specific answer or solution. They don’t usually care about appearing wrong in the process. In contrast, someone under normative influence is more concerned about maintaining social acceptance or being in with the group.
Conclusion
Identifying social influences can be beneficial in developing individual confidence and avoiding peer pressure situations, leading to mental and emotional wellbeing. Informational influence generally happens during a crisis or unfamiliar scenarios, and normative influence occurs when an individual adjusts their actions to fit in with a group’s norms. Recognizing which type of influence you are dealing with can help you manage your response better. Use these insights to take control of your life and make more informed decisions that can lead to a healthier and happier you.
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