What is the term for the influence that leads individuals to conform in order to be accepted or liked by the group?

The term that describes the influence that encourages individuals to conform to group norms for the purpose of being accepted or liked is normative social influence. This type of influence is rooted in the desire for social approval and belonging. People often adjust their opinions, behaviors, or attitudes to fit in with a group, especially in social settings where they fear rejection or wish to be included.

Normative social influence operates on the principle that individuals may prioritize fitting in with a group over their own beliefs or ideas. This can lead to conformity in various situations, whether it’s adopting the same opinions, dressing similarly, or engaging in behaviors that align with the group’s expectations.

Informational social influence, in contrast, occurs when individuals look to others for guidance in ambiguous situations, believing that the group may hold more accurate information. Identificational influence pertains to the process of adopting the characteristics of a person or group one admires, sometimes at a deeper level. Social facilitation refers to improved performance on tasks in the presence of others, not specifically related to conformity for acceptance.