Which of the following factors is closely related to people agreeing or saying "yes" to individuals they favor?

The factor that is closely related to people agreeing or saying "yes" to individuals they favor is liking. When individuals have a favorable view of someone—whether due to shared interests, friendly interactions, or trust—they are more likely to comply with requests or suggestions made by that person. This phenomenon is deeply rooted in social psychology, where positive feelings towards someone can significantly influence decision-making and cooperative behavior. Essentially, when people like someone, the persuasive power of that individual is enhanced, often leading to agreement and compliance.

Other factors such as timing, authority, and proximity can play a role in influencing agreement but are not specifically tied to the emotional connection and interpersonal dynamics highlighted by liking. For instance, timing can affect how a message is received but does not necessarily hinge on personal affinity. Similarly, authority might compel agreement due to perceived power or position, rather than personal connection. Proximity is related to physical or social closeness but lacks the emotional component that makes liking a stronger predictor of agreement in personal interactions.