Final answer:
Yes, most social psychologists today consider that attitudes impact behavior but they also acknowledge the significant role of situational influences and external factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Overall, most of today’s social psychologists believe that attitudes do have an impact on behavior. Attitudes encompass an affective component (feelings), a behavioral component (the effect of the attitude on behavior), and a cognitive component (belief and knowledge), as described by researchers like Eagly & Chaiken, and Rosenberg & Hovland. However, it's also recognized that attitudes are not the sole determinants of behavior. The power of the situation and external factors like social roles, norms, and scripts also play a significant role in influencing behavior, as shown in classic studies like the Stanford prison experiment.
The Yale Attitude Change Approach and findings in the realm of persuasion and social influence further indicate that both internal and external forces shape our attitudes and behaviors. Thus, while attitudes are indeed predictors of behavior, they are part of a complex network of influences that also includes situational pressures.