Final answer:
Individuals with a need for affiliation seek group acceptance and avoid conflict, a concept tied to social psychology's study of human relationships and behavior, particularly within the context of conformity and cognitive dissonance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Individuals with a need for affiliation seek approval from others, want to conform to others' wishes and expectations, and avoid conflict and confrontation. The concept of affiliation relates to the human desire to be connected to others and be part of a group, which is a significant aspect of social psychology. When referring to cognitive dissonance, it describes the psychological discomfort that arises when a person's behaviors, attitudes, or beliefs are in conflict, disrupting their sense of consistency.
When discussing conditions under which informational social influence is more likely, it happens when the answer to a situation is unclear and when the group one is in has expertise (both b and c). The dependency of individuals on their in-group and their tendencies to seek approval, avoid disapproval, and conform to group norms reflects the extent to which a person will go to fit in and be accepted by their peers or society. This psychological and sociological need is crucial during high school years, where peer acceptance can significantly influence behavior.