Social norms

Definition

Social norms are the unwritten rules and expectations that govern the behavior of individuals within a group or society. They play a crucial role in shaping how people present themselves and interact with others, particularly in virtual spaces where physical cues may be absent. Understanding social norms is essential for effective self-presentation and identity formation in various contexts, especially online.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social norms can vary widely between different cultures and communities, affecting how individuals express themselves online and offline.
2. In virtual environments, the absence of non-verbal cues can lead to misunderstandings or misinterpretations of social norms.
3. Social media platforms often create their own set of social norms, influencing how users communicate and engage with each other.
4. Violating social norms can result in negative feedback or ostracism from a community, highlighting the importance of adhering to these expectations.
5. Understanding social norms is key to managing one's virtual identity and navigating the complexities of self-presentation in online interactions.

Review Questions

• How do social norms influence self-presentation in virtual environments?
  • Social norms significantly shape how individuals choose to present themselves online. In virtual spaces, users often adjust their profiles, language, and behavior to align with the expectations of their peers or community standards. This alignment helps them gain acceptance and fosters positive interactions, as straying from established norms can lead to misunderstandings or negative feedback.
• Discuss the consequences of deviating from social norms in online interactions and its impact on virtual identity.
  • Deviating from social norms in online interactions can have serious consequences, such as social disapproval, negative comments, or even being blocked by peers. This backlash affects an individual's virtual identity by potentially leading to a loss of credibility or status within the online community. As a result, many individuals feel pressured to conform to established norms to maintain their reputation and foster positive relationships.
• Evaluate the role of social media in shaping and redefining social norms regarding self-presentation.
  • Social media plays a pivotal role in shaping and redefining social norms related to self-presentation by providing platforms where users can share their lives publicly. These platforms often highlight specific behaviors and aesthetics as desirable or 'normal', influencing how individuals craft their online identities. As trends emerge and evolve on social media, they challenge existing norms and create new standards for acceptable behavior and presentation, reflecting broader cultural shifts in society.

Related terms

conformity: The act of matching attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors to group norms, often influenced by social pressure.

deviance: Behavior that violates social norms, which can lead to social disapproval or stigma.

self-presentation: The process by which individuals attempt to influence the perceptions others have of them, particularly in social settings.