Social norms

Definition

Social norms are the unwritten rules and expectations that govern behavior within a group or society. They play a crucial role in maintaining order and coherence, guiding individuals on what is considered acceptable or unacceptable behavior in various contexts, such as communication and interactions, particularly in relation to mass media. Understanding social norms helps to explain how they shape public perception and influence media content.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social norms can vary widely between different cultures and societies, influencing everything from fashion to communication styles.
2. Mass media often reflects and reinforces existing social norms, while also having the power to challenge or change them over time.
3. The emergence of social media has created new social norms around communication, such as the expectation of immediate responses and the sharing of personal experiences.
4. Norms can be classified into two main types: descriptive norms (what people actually do) and injunctive norms (what people believe they should do).
5. Violating social norms can lead to social sanctions, such as ridicule or ostracism, highlighting their importance in maintaining social order.

Review Questions

• How do social norms influence the way mass media presents information and shapes public perception?
  • Social norms significantly influence how mass media presents information by dictating what topics are deemed acceptable for discussion and how those topics are framed. Media outlets often align with prevailing social norms to cater to their audience's expectations, thereby shaping public perception. For instance, certain issues may be portrayed positively or negatively based on societal attitudes, impacting how audiences understand and react to those issues.
• In what ways can social media create new social norms, and how might these differ from traditional mass media norms?
  • Social media creates new social norms by enabling rapid communication and the sharing of personal content, leading to expectations around transparency and connectivity. Unlike traditional mass media, which often operates through gatekeepers like editors and producers, social media allows for more diverse voices and perspectives. This democratization can lead to shifts in social norms regarding privacy, self-presentation, and audience interaction, as users navigate new rules for engagement in a digital space.
• Evaluate the impact of changing social norms on mass media representation of marginalized groups over time.
  • Changing social norms have had a profound impact on the representation of marginalized groups in mass media, leading to more inclusive portrayals that reflect evolving societal attitudes. As awareness grows regarding issues like race, gender identity, and sexuality, media content has increasingly shifted from stereotypes to more nuanced narratives that highlight the experiences of these groups. This shift not only challenges outdated norms but also fosters greater empathy and understanding among audiences, ultimately contributing to broader societal change.

Related terms

Cultural Norms: Cultural norms are the shared standards and values that define what is acceptable behavior within a specific culture or society.

Media Influence: Media influence refers to the ways in which media shapes perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors of individuals and society as a whole.

Peer Pressure: Peer pressure is the social influence exerted by a peer group that encourages individuals to change their attitudes, values, or behaviors to conform to group norms.