Introduction
We have all heard the saying, "birds of a feather flock together."  Many of us have also encountered "don't run with the wrong crowd."  Do social groups really influence us?  If so, how?  What does this mean to us as students?  As professionals?  Being aware of some aspects of social influence can be beneficial to us all.  Understanding how it effects us personally can equip us to be effective leaders.  That's the focus of this web quest, understanding social influence.

Task
As part of a group of students striving to enhance your leadership skills, you need to understand your personal characteristics related to decision making and being influenced by others.  As an individual, you will follow the links to web sites describing issues in social influence.  After studying the research, you will note how you believe you would have managed each situation.  Then you will examine some of the personality characteristics associated with obedience.  Finally, the group will come together to compare notes, identify personal traits, and role play.

Process
1.  Review the following links to develop an understanding of some examples of negative social influence.  Take notes regarding your feelings and what you believe you would have done.  Can you think of current events that relate to destructive obedience?

2.  Go to the link below and review sources, conformity, compliance, and obedience.

3.  Follow the links to the information on personality characteristics.  After reviewing, identify which style you most closely relate to.  Do not try to take the tests on the second link as you have to be a member to do so.

4.  Bring your findings to group on March 6th.  Be prepared to share and role play.  Also identify current events for discussion within the social influence framework.

Evaluation
Each participant will be given credit as arranged with Student Support Services.  Group members will hold participants accountable for presenting honest and thought provoking material.

Conclusion
You have completed the initial step in developing an awareness of the impact social influence.  This is your "inside information" that can help you be successful throughout life.  Knowing your personal style, strengths, and weaknesses will give you an edge.  Take advantage of that insight!

Credits