In the context of social influence, what behavior is associated with the desire to perform at a higher level due to others' presence?

The behavior associated with the desire to perform at a higher level due to the presence of others is social facilitation. This phenomenon occurs when individuals enhance their performance in the presence of others, especially when performing tasks that they are already skilled at. The arousal brought about by an audience or co-actors can lead to improved outcomes, as the individual may feel motivated to impress or compete with those around them.

In understanding this concept, it’s important to recognize its basis in psychological principles, where the presence of others can increase an individual's drive. This is particularly evident in activities that require a level of expertise or familiarity, where the social context can boost confidence and energy, leading to enhanced performance.

The other concepts, while related to social dynamics, reflect different aspects of behavior. Social inhibition refers to the decrease in performance that can occur when a person is in the presence of others, especially for tasks that are complex or unfamiliar. Social conformity involves adjusting one’s behavior or beliefs to align with the group, and social exchange refers to the theory suggesting social behavior is the result of an exchange process where individuals seek to maximize their benefits. Thus, social facilitation specifically captures the essence of an increased performance due to the supportive influence of others.