This research extended the Network Theory of Attitudes by incorporating the Blume-Capel model, which introduces a neutrality parameter (α) composed of internally-driven Caution and socially-driven Reluctance. Two studies examined how these mechanisms manifest in attitude expression. Study 1 (N = 69) experimentally manipulated social context (public vs. private) to test whether Reluctance-driven neutrality would emerge under social pressure. Contrary to predictions, neutrality rates did not differ between conditions; instead, herd effects suggested conformity rather than neutral withdrawal. Study 2 (N = 212) examined reasons for neutral responses and found strong support for Caution over Reluctance motivations, validating the theoretical distinction. However, manipulating information completeness did not significantly affect neutrality rates, challenging uncertainty as a primary driver. Secondary analyses across multiple datasets revealed that Blume-Capel α parameters consistently predicted reductions in Item Response Theory difficulty parameters, providing convergent validity. Results establish neutrality as a meaningful psychological state requiring explicit theoretical treatment. The Blume-Capel extension provides a formal framework for understanding neutral position adoption, advancing attitude research beyond binary conceptualizations. Findings suggest that internal motivations (Caution) dominate private neutrality expression, while social influences operate through conformity mechanisms rather than withdrawal. Future research should examine stronger social pressure contexts and develop refined measures distinguishing Caution and Reluctance.