Direct social influence occurs when individuals change their thoughts, feelings, or behaviors due to the presence or actions of others. This can happen in various settings, such as groups of friends, families, or workplaces, where people may conform to group norms or follow the lead of influential figures. Examples of direct social influence include peer pressure, where individuals feel compelled to act in a certain way to fit in, or the impact of a leader's decisions on their followers. This type of influence highlights the power of social interactions in shaping individual choices and behaviors.