What type of influence occurs when individuals conform to others in order to be accepted or liked?

The correct answer is normative influence, which refers to the tendency of individuals to conform to the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors of others in order to gain social acceptance or avoid social rejection. This form of influence is primarily driven by the desire to fit in with a group and to be liked or accepted by peers.

Normative influence often leads individuals to adopt certain behaviors or attitudes, even if they might personally disagree with them, because they want to maintain harmonious social relationships. This need for acceptance is a fundamental aspect of human social behavior, highlighting the importance of social connections in shaping individual choices.

In contrast, informational influence relates to conformity based on the desire for accurate information and involves individuals changing their beliefs or behaviors when they believe others possess more accurate knowledge. Referent influence is a concept more commonly discussed in the context of leadership and role modeling, where individuals look up to certain figures as role models rather than primarily seeking acceptance. Social validation involves the affirmation one receives from others about their beliefs or actions, but it does not focus specifically on the drive for acceptance in the same way normative influence does.