How to Use Small Commitments to Manipulate a Man's Self Image

Freedman and fraser found that agreeing to trivial requests can change a person's attitude about getting involved or taking action. In order to be consistent with their newly formed self images, people need to agree to such requests. This is why i am rarely willing to sign a petition any more - even for a position i support. Such an action has the potential to influence not only my future behaviour, but also my self image in ways i may not want. All sorts of subtle advantages become available to someone who wants to exploit that new image.