Social Influence: Insights for Public Regulation and Policy

In an interconnected world, individual decision-making is deeply influenced by social norms, peer behavior, and institutional regulations. Understanding these social dynamics is crucial for public policymakers aiming to design effective interventions in areas such as public health and social integration. This thesis explores the role of social influence in shaping individual choices and how regulatory frameworks can leverage these mechanisms to improve policy outcomes. Through a combination of literature review, theoretical modeling, and empirical research, the study examines vaccination behavior, health opinion formation, and the cultural influence of religious leaders. The first chapter provides a comprehensive review of behavioral factors driving vaccination decisions. It moves beyond traditional cost-benefit models to analyze psychological, social, and informational influences. This synthesis underscores the importance of addressing misinformation, trust in institutions, and perceived social norms when developing vaccination policies. Building on this, the second chapter introduces a theoretical model examining the impact of policies such as the COVID-19 Green Pass. It evaluates how social influence and perceived costs affect vaccination uptake, offering a macro-level perspective on regulatory effectiveness. The findings suggest that interventions aligning with social conformity and behavioral nudges can significantly improve public health compliance. The final chapter extends the discussion to cultural integration, focusing on the role of religious leaders within immigrant communities. Using Moroccan imams in Turin, Italy, as a case study, this research explores how these leaders shape cultural adaptation and policy acceptance. The findings emphasize the need for policymakers to engage with trusted community figures to foster social cohesion and improve policy implementation. Together, these chapters provide a multidimensional perspective on social influence and its implications for public policy. By integrating behavioral insights with regulatory strategies, this thesis contributes to the growing field of behavioral public policy and highlights the power of social dynamics in shaping effective governance