Final answer:
The utilitarian influence of reference groups is exemplified through the workplace, where practical and monetary incentives guide behavior. Informational and value-expressive influences are also present, providing decision guidance and identity associations respectively. These influences together shape individuals' social identities and behaviors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Reference Group Influence
The utilitarian influence of reference groups emerges in various aspects of our lives, such as family gatherings, workplaces, and cultural centers. A personal example could be the utilitarian influence from a workplace where my colleagues and I complete specific tasks to earn money. Here, expectations and rewards are clear, and the group provides a practical framework for behavior.
The other types of influences, informational and value-expressive, also exist within reference groups. Informational influence occurs when groups provide guidance and information needed to make decisions. For instance, colleagues at work may offer advice on professional development paths. Value-expressive influence reflects a group's ability to foster an emotional or expressive association. If your reference group is a music band, it may not only offer a sense of belonging but also a source of identity linked to the band's image and message.
Ultimately, reference groups can help in forming our social identities and guide our behaviors, demonstrating their importance in shaping how we think, act, and perceive our social world.