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We are influenced by both conscious and unconscious social cues from "summary" of The Social Animal by Elliot Aronson
Our behavior is influenced by a multitude of factors, both conscious and unconscious, that we may not always be aware of. Social cues play a significant role in shaping our thoughts, feelings, and actions in various social situations. These cues can be explicit, such as verbal instructions or body language, or implicit, such as societal norms and cultural values that we internalize over time. Conscious social cues are those that we are aware of and actively process in our interactions with others. For example, when someone gives us a direct compliment, we are consciously aware of the positive feedback and may feel encouraged to continue engaging in that behavior. Similarly, when we receive a disapproving look from a friend, we are conscious of the negative signal and may adjust our behavior accordingly. Unconscious social cues, on the other hand, operate beneath our awareness and can have a profound impact on our behavior. These cues may stem from our upbringing, past experiences, or societal influences that shape our perceptions and responses without us realizing it. For instance, we may feel a sense of discomfort or unease in certain social settings without understanding the underlying reasons behind these feelings. Our susceptibility to social cues, both conscious and unconscious, highlights the intricate ways in which our social environment shapes our thoughts and behaviors. From conforming to group norms to internalizing cultural expectations, we are constantly navigating a complex web of social influences that guide our actions in everyday life. By recognizing and understanding these influences, we can gain insight into our own behavior and make more informed choices in social situations.- Our interactions with others are not solely determined by our conscious thoughts and intentions but are also influenced by a myriad of social cues that operate at a subconscious level. By acknowledging the power of these cues in shaping our behavior, we can cultivate a deeper understanding of ourselves and the social dynamics that underpin our relationships with others.
