Social Norms
Norms are implicit (unwritten) social rules which define what is expected of individuals
in certain situations. They are measures of what is seen as normal in society and govern acceptable behavior in society. Soci al norms vary from culture to culture and can be specific to a particular group or situation. Some social no rms are explicit, such
as laws or religious teachings, while others are more implicit, such as etiquette. Viol ating social norms can elicit
negative responses in others, including unfavorable social perceptions,
negat ive emotions, scolding, gossip, and punishment resulting
in negative consequences, such as being ostraci zed from a community or, though only
in exceptional circumstances, punished by law.
