Final answer:
Implicit attitudes predict behavior in spontaneous situations or when cognitive load is high, while explicit attitudes predict behavior when individuals are conscious of their actions or expect to justify them. Motivation affects whether implicit or explicit attitudes are more predictive, with explicit attitudes prevailing when motivation to control prejudices is high.
Step-by-step explanation:
Implicit attitudes and explicit attitudes influence behavior differently, often depending on the level of motivation and the situation. Explicit attitudes are conscious, deliberate, and controllable, allowing individuals to act in a way that reflects their self-presentational concerns and conscious beliefs, especially in situations where they are accountable or expect to justify their actions. On the other hand, implicit attitudes are unconscious and automatic, exerting influence on behavior more so in spontaneous or high cognitive demand situations, where the supervisory function is weaker or individuals are not consciously monitoring their actions. Studies suggest that implicit attitudes may better predict behavior when external influences are minimal, or when actions occur quickly without much deliberation.
Motivation plays a crucial role in determining whether implicit or explicit attitudes will predict behavior. When motivation to control prejudiced responses is high, for example, explicit attitudes are more likely to predict behavior. Conversely, implicit attitudes are more predictive when individuals are not motivated to control their actions or when the behavior is difficult to consciously monitor. This can be seen in scenarios where racial bias or sexism might be indirectly revealed through quick, subtle nonverbal behaviors rather than overt actions.