Social norms

Definition

Social norms are the unwritten rules and expectations that govern behavior within a particular group or culture. These norms shape how individuals interact with one another and influence their attitudes, values, and behaviors during adolescence. They vary widely across different cultures and can significantly impact adolescent development by affecting peer relationships, identity formation, and overall socialization processes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social norms can differ significantly between cultures, affecting how adolescents behave and perceive themselves in various contexts.
2. In many cultures, social norms play a crucial role in defining acceptable behaviors during key developmental milestones such as coming of age or initiation rites.
3. Adolescents are particularly sensitive to social norms due to their desire for acceptance and belonging, which can lead to conformity even against personal beliefs.
4. Norms can change over time, meaning what was once considered acceptable behavior may become frowned upon as societal attitudes shift.
5. Understanding social norms is essential for recognizing how they contribute to issues like bullying, peer acceptance, and identity exploration during adolescence.

Review Questions

• How do social norms influence peer relationships during adolescence?
  • Social norms significantly shape peer relationships by establishing expected behaviors within a group. Adolescents often conform to these norms to gain acceptance and avoid rejection. This can lead to strong friendships based on shared values and interests but may also result in negative behaviors if the prevailing norms promote unhealthy practices or attitudes. Understanding these dynamics helps illuminate the challenges adolescents face in navigating their social environments.
• Discuss the role of cultural variations in shaping social norms among adolescents.
  • Cultural variations greatly influence social norms, as each culture has its own set of expectations regarding acceptable behaviors. For instance, collectivist cultures may emphasize conformity and group harmony, while individualistic cultures might prioritize personal expression and independence. These differences affect how adolescents develop their identities and relate to peers, ultimately shaping their experiences and interactions within their cultural context.
• Evaluate how changing social norms can impact adolescent development and identity formation.
  • Changing social norms can significantly impact adolescent development by altering the framework within which individuals form their identities. As societal attitudes shift, adolescents may find themselves navigating conflicting expectations, which can lead to confusion and stress. For example, a norm that previously discouraged certain forms of self-expression might evolve to embrace diversity. This evolution allows adolescents to explore their identities more freely but may also create tension as they reconcile new norms with traditional beliefs held by family or community.

Related terms

cultural scripts: Cultural scripts are the shared guidelines for behavior that dictate how individuals should act in specific situations based on cultural expectations.

peer pressure: Peer pressure is the influence exerted by peers to encourage individuals to conform to certain behaviors, values, or attitudes prevalent in a social group.

deviance: Deviance refers to behaviors that violate social norms, which can lead to social sanctions or ostracism from the group.