Identification in social behavior occurs when a person:

Identification in social behavior refers to a psychological process where an individual adopts the attitudes, behaviors, or beliefs of someone they admire or respect. This process typically occurs as a means of fostering closeness or affiliation with that individual, often leading to the incorporation of these traits into their own identity.

When a person acts like someone they respect, they are engaging in identification, as they seek to emulate the qualities of that admired figure. This emulation can help strengthen social bonds or reinforce a desired identity, aligning behavior with perceived characteristics of a role model. In this context, the process is driven by the desire to connect with the admired individual and to integrate aspects of their behavior into one's own self-concept.

The other options do not fit the definition of identification. Rejecting the influence of others suggests independence from external social cues, which is contrary to the concept of identification. Publicly disagreeing with the majority reflects dissent rather than adherence to a respected figure, and privately holding contradictory beliefs indicates internal conflict rather than adopting a shared identity or behavior. Thus, the option involving acting like someone respected captures the essence of identification in social behavior effectively.