An Analysis and Restructuring of the Diamond Model of Social Response

Abstract

Five descriptive models of social response are review, with emphasis on Willis's bidimensional diamond model. Even though the diamond model has never been widely accepted or used, it has advantages over alternative models, both in its conceptual sophistication and in its practical utility. Conceptually, the diamond model is actually a family of models, and this family includes the two most popular unidimensional models. Practically, the diamond model provides a clear-cut means of distinguishing between independence and anticonformity. One problem with Willis's original presentation of the model is considered, and its resolution provides the foundation for a restructured version of the model. The authors conclude that the diamond model has several of the characteristics general considered desirable for scientific theories and that it should be reevaluated by social influence researchers.