Social Norms

Definition

Social norms are the unwritten rules and expectations that govern the behavior of individuals within a society. They shape what is considered acceptable or unacceptable behavior, influencing social interactions and individual actions. These norms can evolve over time, reflecting changes in societal values and ideologies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social norms can be categorized into two types: descriptive norms, which describe how people typically behave, and injunctive norms, which reflect what behaviors are approved or disapproved by society.
2. Changes in social norms often coincide with shifts in cultural values, such as increased acceptance of diversity and changing views on issues like gender roles and marriage.
3. Social norms can influence legislation and public policy by shaping the collective attitudes toward specific issues, such as civil rights or environmental responsibility.
4. The enforcement of social norms occurs through socialization processes, where individuals learn acceptable behaviors from family, peers, and media.
5. Understanding social norms is crucial for analyzing social movements and ideological changes, as these movements often seek to challenge or reinforce existing norms.

Review Questions

• How do social norms influence individual behavior within a society?
  • Social norms significantly influence individual behavior by establishing expectations for how people should act in various situations. These norms create a framework that individuals often subconsciously follow to fit in with their community. For example, in many cultures, norms around politeness may dictate how people greet one another or engage in conversation. By adhering to these norms, individuals gain social acceptance and avoid potential disapproval from others.
• Discuss the relationship between changes in social norms and ideological shifts within a society.
  • Changes in social norms often reflect broader ideological shifts within a society. For instance, as attitudes toward issues like marriage equality or racial equality evolve, so too do the associated social norms that dictate acceptable behavior. This interplay highlights how shifts in ideology can prompt changes in what is considered socially acceptable, leading to new expectations for behavior that align with emerging values. Consequently, this evolution can drive legislative changes as societies adapt to new understandings of equality and justice.
• Evaluate the impact of social movements on the evolution of social norms and their implications for governance.
  • Social movements play a crucial role in challenging and reshaping existing social norms, significantly impacting governance and public policy. When movements advocate for change—such as civil rights or environmental justice—they not only raise awareness but also shift public perceptions about acceptable behaviors. This transformation can lead to new laws and regulations that reflect these evolving norms. Ultimately, the interplay between social movements and social norms can redefine the framework of governance by introducing new priorities that address contemporary societal needs.

Related terms

Cultural Norms: Cultural norms are the shared standards and expectations within a specific cultural group that guide behavior and social practices.

Conformity: Conformity refers to the act of aligning attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors with those of a group or social norm, often influenced by the desire for acceptance.

Deviance: Deviance refers to behaviors or actions that violate societal norms, which can lead to social disapproval or sanctions.