other-directed
UK: ˌʌðə dɪˈrɛktɪd | US: ˌʌðər dɪˈrɛktɪd
adj. influenced or guided by the values, opinions, or expectations of others rather than by one's own internal standards.
The term "other-directed" was coined in the mid-20th century by sociologist David Riesman in his work The Lonely Crowd (1950). It combines "other," from Old English ōþer (meaning "different" or "second"), and "directed," from Latin directus (past participle of dirigere, "to guide"). The suffix "-ed" forms an adjective, indicating a state of being influenced. The word reflects modern societal shifts toward external validation, contrasting with "inner-directed" individuals who rely on personal principles.
Other-directed people often seek approval from peers before making decisions.
Social media encourages other-directed behavior by prioritizing likes and shares.
In an other-directed culture, trends change rapidly based on collective influence.
Her other-directed mindset made her vulnerable to peer pressure.
Riesman argued that postwar America became increasingly other-directed.