What does identification in social influence involve?

Identification in social influence involves adapting behavior to fit in with a group while still maintaining some sense of individuality. This process occurs when individuals change their attitudes or behaviors in order to be accepted and to connect with the group they identify with, often because they want to belong or feel socially accepted.

In this context, individuals may align their behaviors and attitudes to those of the group, but unlike deeper conformity (which reflects a true internal agreement with group values), identification allows for some degree of independence. People may adopt certain traits or behaviors that they see in the group but will not completely abandon their personal beliefs or preferences. This means they can embrace the group's characteristics while still holding on to aspects of their individual identity.

This contrasts with other options, as temporary changes for approval emphasize short-term compliance rather than a balanced adaptation. Deeper changes reflecting agreement with group values suggest a more profound influence than what identification entails, and permanent changes related to personal beliefs imply a level of commitment beyond what identification typically represents.