How would one best define social influence?

The definition of social influence best aligns with the concept of the impact that one person's behavior has on another's actions and thoughts. This encompasses a broad range of interactions where individuals can affect each other in various ways, including compliance, conformity, and obedience. Social influence is fundamental in understanding how group dynamics operate and how individual behaviors can shift in response to social contexts.

For instance, when someone adopts a new behavior or belief because they are part of a group, that reflects social influence at work. This influence can stem from direct instructions, peer pressure, or even subtle cues from the social environment. Unlike the options focused on persuasion, motivation, or identity formation, the selected definition encapsulates the essence of interpersonal dynamics and the comprehensive ways individuals guide or alter each other's thoughts and actions within social settings.