In social psychology, what does the phrase "deception can serve as a social lubricant" most accurately refer to?

• A. Deception is never acceptable in any social context.
• B. Deception can help facilitate smoother social interactions by reducing potential conflicts or awkwardness.
• C. Deception always leads to negative outcomes in social relationships.
• D. Deception is only used to manipulate others for personal gain.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the phrase 'deception can serve as a social lubricant' by breaking down the metaphor: a lubricant reduces friction, so in social terms, deception might reduce social tension or awkwardness.
2. Consider the role of deception in social interactions, recognizing that not all deception is harmful; some forms can help maintain harmony or avoid conflict.
3. Evaluate the given options by comparing them to the idea that deception can sometimes facilitate smoother social interactions rather than always causing harm.
4. Identify that the phrase most accurately refers to deception helping to ease social situations by reducing potential conflicts or awkwardness, rather than being inherently negative or manipulative.
5. Conclude that the correct interpretation is that deception can help facilitate smoother social interactions by reducing potential conflicts or awkwardness.