A new research assistant is uncertain which container should receive a contaminated pipette. After observing several experienced assistants place similar pipettes in a red container, the new assistant does the same. Later, the laboratory director orders the assistant to repeat a tedious inventory after normal working hours. Although the assistant would prefer to leave and no coworkers are present, the assistant carries out the order. Which social processes best explain the assistant's two behaviors, respectively?
Select one answer.
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Answer: D (Informational social influence followed by obedience)
The assistant is initially uncertain about the correct procedure and treats the experienced assistants' behavior as evidence, demonstrating informational social influence. The assistant later follows a direct order from a recognized authority despite a personal preference not to do so, demonstrating obedience. Therefore, the correct answer is D.