Final answer:
Being familiar with the unwritten rules of society contributes to feelings of being confident and included, enhancing one's social experience. Furthermore, informational social influence occurs more likely when the answer to a situation is unclear and when the group in question has expertise. Hence, option (b) is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
Being familiar with the unwritten rules of a society makes people feel confident and included. This familiarity with societal norms allows individuals to navigate social situations effectively, reducing feelings of anxiety and isolation. Knowing the norms, one feels part of the in-group, which sociologist William Sumner describes as a group an individual identifies with and considers an integral part of their identity. Conversely, an out-group is one to which the individual does not belong and may even compete against or disdain.
Regarding informational social influence, it will be more likely under certain conditions such as:
- When individuals want to fit in - They look to the behavior of others to guide their own actions.
- When the answer is unclear - Uncertainty prompts individuals to turn to others for clarity.
- When the group has expertise - People tend to conform to the opinions of those perceived as more knowledgeable.