Final answer:
LO-4.05 predicts behavior changes driven by obedience to authority, conformity to group norms, and adherence to social norms, all of which are forms of social influence that compel individuals to align their behaviors with those prescribed by an authority figure or a group.
Step-by-step explanation:
In social psychology, LO-4.05 Predict how obedience, conformity, and social norms (Robert Cialdini et al. 2006) lead to behavior change is an inquiry into the mechanisms of social influence. Obedience, as illustrated by Stanley Milgram's experiment, refers to when individuals comply with the demands of an authority figure, often to avoid consequences. Conformity is the adjustment of behavior to align with group norms or expectations, driven by the desire to fit in and be accepted within a group. Social norms are the shared expectations and rules guiding the behavior of people within social groups and societies. These norms can be powerful motivators for behavior change, as individuals often adapt their behaviors to align with the perceived norms of the group to avoid the discomfort of standing out or being socially rejected.
Through various studies, including the famous Asch conformity experiments, we have observed the profound influence that the desire to conform can have on an individual's actions, even leading to ethically questionable decisions. The extent of this influence can vary depending on cultural contexts and individual differences, but it is a strong force that can alter behaviors significantly.