Social Norms

Definition

Social norms are the unwritten rules and expectations that govern behavior within a society or group, dictating what is considered acceptable or unacceptable conduct. These norms shape individual actions and interactions by providing guidelines for behavior that align with the collective values and beliefs of the community. They can vary widely across different cultures and contexts, influencing everything from storytelling styles to beliefs about the supernatural.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social norms can be explicit, such as laws or formal regulations, or implicit, where individuals learn expected behaviors through observation and socialization.
2. In performance and storytelling, social norms guide how stories are told, who tells them, and what content is considered appropriate for audiences.
3. Social norms can evolve over time, influenced by changing cultural values, technological advancements, and shifts in societal attitudes.
4. The violation of social norms can lead to social sanctions, which can range from mild disapproval to severe penalties in more rigid cultures.
5. In folk beliefs, social norms dictate what is accepted as truth or superstition within a community, affecting how folklore is transmitted and believed.

Review Questions

• How do social norms influence the performance and storytelling techniques used within different cultures?
  • Social norms play a crucial role in shaping the performance and storytelling techniques utilized across cultures by establishing what is acceptable or expected in narratives. For example, certain cultures may emphasize oral traditions where storytelling is a communal event, while others might focus on written forms. Norms around humor, seriousness, or even types of characters depicted often guide the storyteller’s approach, ensuring that the story aligns with the audience's expectations and cultural values.
• Discuss how social norms can impact individual beliefs about folk practices within a community.
  • Social norms significantly impact individual beliefs about folk practices by shaping what is considered legitimate or credible within a community. When certain practices are upheld as normative behavior—like specific rituals or superstitions—individuals are more likely to adopt them into their own belief systems. Conversely, if a practice is seen as taboo or out of sync with the prevailing norms, it may lead to skepticism or outright rejection among community members.
• Evaluate the role of social norms in both preserving and challenging folk beliefs in contemporary society.
  • Social norms serve a dual role in contemporary society by both preserving and challenging folk beliefs. On one hand, they help maintain traditional practices by fostering a sense of belonging and identity among community members who share these beliefs. On the other hand, as societal values evolve—often influenced by globalization and increased access to diverse perspectives—social norms can challenge outdated beliefs. This tension can lead to a re-examination of folk traditions and an adaptation of practices to fit modern sensibilities while still honoring their origins.

Related terms

Cultural Scripts: Cultural scripts are specific sequences of behaviors or actions that are expected in social situations, helping individuals navigate interactions according to cultural norms.

Folkways: Folkways are informal norms that dictate everyday behavior, such as manners and customs, which are not strictly enforced but can lead to social disapproval if violated.

Taboos: Taboos are strong prohibitions against certain behaviors or practices, often rooted in cultural or religious beliefs, that elicit a sense of disgust or moral outrage when violated.