Marcie is invited to a black-tie dinner at the Ritz-Carlton. She has never been served a 10-course meal before, so she is unfamiliar with the social etiquette regarding silverware selection. Since Marcie is in a foreign environment, she gets through the night by watching others who appear to know what they are doing. For each course, she follows their selection of silverware. Marcie is displaying _____ social influence.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Marcie is using informational social influence by observing and following the behavior of others who she perceives as knowledgeable about the situation. She is seeking information and guidance on how to behave appropriately in this unfamiliar environment. Situational influence would be if Marcie's behavior was influenced by the characteristics of the situation, such as if she ate more because there was more food available. Peripheral influence would be if Marcie's behavior was influenced by superficial factors, such as the appearance or status of the people around her. Normative influence would be if Marcie's behavior was influenced by a desire to conform to social norms or avoid social disapproval.

Marcie Is Invited to a Black-Tie Dinner at the Ritz-Carlton