Informational social influence occurs when individuals look to others for guidance in uncertain situations. People often rely on the opinions or behaviors of others to help them make decisions, especially when they lack knowledge or experience. This influence is based on the desire to be correct and to understand the right course of action.
In many cases, informational social influence leads to conformity, where individuals adopt the beliefs or behaviors of a group. This can happen in various contexts, such as during group discussions, in classrooms, or when observing social norms. Ultimately, it reflects the human tendency to seek validation and clarity from others.