The functions of attitudes are mentioned below:

(i) Attitudes allow us to understand the world around us. Positive attitudes help to come closer to some people and make you agree to their requests. You may identify with role models (e.g. Sachin Tendulkar, Mother Teresa) and try to

develop their way of thinking and behaving. The negative attitudes make us stay away from such people or situations.

(ii) Attitudes help describe the social groups that each one of us belongs to. As members of a family, group of friends, or, religious, political group we share similar attitudes and this helps to bind us together. Thus we may favour the

religious and political groups we belong to and show unfavourable attitude towards the other groups.

(iii) Attitudes also help us to understand ‘who we are’ or our identity. Attitudes express an individual’s values and self-concept. For example, some people value equality while others may value freedom or compassion. Mahatma Gandhi’s attitude towards honesty and Mother Teresa’s concern for the poor and needy is well known.

(iv) Attitudes help us to get support, praise and acceptance from others. People who hold similar attitudes are attracted toward each other. For example, your friend and you share common interests and attitudes, both of you like each other and hence it makes easier to carry on the friendship. Thus attitudes help us to adjust in our social interaction.