Power to the Person ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Ψ Social situations influence the individual & individuals influence social situations. They interact! Ψ The interaction of persons & situations occurs in at least 3 ways: 1. Social situations affect different people differently 2. People often choose their situations 3. People often create their situations Ψ The reciprocal causation between people & their situations allow us to see people as either reacting to or acting upon their environment. Each way of looking at it is correct for "We are both products & architects of our social worlds." - unknown. • "The essence of reactance is rebellion." - unknown Ψ Psychological Reactance: People act to protect their sense of freedom. Attempts to restrict a person's freedom often produce an anti conformity "boomerang effect". Ψ Asserting Uniqueness: People feel uncomfortable when they appear too different from others. In Individualistic cultures like ours people also feel uncomfortable when they appear exactly like everyone else. We seek distinctiveness. • "All history is a record of the power of minorities, and of minorities of one." - Ralph Waldo Emerson Ψ Minority Influence: a form of social influence, which takes place when a majority is being influenced to accept the beliefs or behavior of a minority. Ψ Determinants of Minority Influence: 1. Consistency: A minority that sticks to its position can become highly influential. This is largely because, even if not popular, it will soon become the focus of the debate, & the position supported by the most arguments usually wins. 2. Self-confidence: Self-assurance may raise self-doubt in others, hence prompting them to re-consider their position. This is especially true for matters of attitude, more so than for matters of fact. 3. Defection from the Majority: A persistent minority punctures any illusions of unanimity & thus allows majority members greater freedom to express their own doubts & even change position. • "A man who wants to lead the orchestra must turn his back on the crowd. " - James Crook Ψ Leadership: "The ability of an individual to influence, motivate, & enable others to contribute toward the effectiveness & success of the organizations of which they are members." • Task Leaders: good at organizing work, setting standards, & goal attainment focus. Often have a directive style of leadership. • Social Leaders: good at building team work, mediating conflicts, & being supportive. Often have a democratic style of leadership. Ψ Effective Leaders: 1. engender trust by consistently sticking to their goals. 2. exude a self-confident charisma that makes loyal followers. 3. have a compelling vision for the future. 4. high level communication skills. 5. the ability to inspire. --------------------------------------- Social Psychology Robert C. Gates