1. those interpersonal processes that challenge the correctness of an individual’s beliefs or the appropriateness of his or her behavior, thereby promoting change. Such influence may occur directly, as a result of communication and persuasion, or indirectly, through exposure to information and comparison of oneself with others (see social comparison theory). Also called informational social influence. Compare interpersonal influence; normative influence.

2. the degree to which a person’s judgments or opinions about an unclear situation are accepted by others as correct.