Social norms

Definition

Social norms are the unwritten rules and expectations that govern the behavior of individuals within a society or group. These norms shape how people interact with each other, influencing their actions, beliefs, and perceptions of acceptable behavior. Understanding social norms is crucial for creating consistent rules and logic in storytelling, as they help establish a framework for character behavior and plot development.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social norms can be explicit, like laws, or implicit, emerging from cultural practices and expectations.
2. They vary across different cultures and communities, meaning what is acceptable behavior in one society may be frowned upon in another.
3. Characters in episodic dramas often must navigate social norms to make decisions that align with or challenge societal expectations.
4. Social norms evolve over time as societal values change, affecting how stories are told and received.
5. Violating social norms can lead to conflicts in narratives, driving plot development and character arcs.

Review Questions

• How do social norms influence character behavior in episodic dramas?
  • Social norms play a critical role in shaping character behavior by establishing what is considered acceptable or unacceptable within a given context. Characters often react to these norms, which can drive conflict when they either conform to or rebel against societal expectations. For instance, a character might face consequences for breaking a social norm, creating tension that propels the narrative forward.
• Discuss the significance of understanding social norms when creating consistent rules and logic in storytelling.
  • Understanding social norms is essential for creating believable characters and plots. When storytellers incorporate these unwritten rules into their narratives, it helps establish a coherent world where actions have clear motivations and consequences. This consistency makes the story more relatable and engaging for the audience, as they can recognize and understand the characters' dilemmas within the context of societal expectations.
• Evaluate how changes in social norms can impact narrative structure and character development in episodic drama.
  • Changes in social norms can significantly reshape narrative structure and character development by introducing new conflicts and resolutions. As societal values evolve, characters may grapple with outdated norms that clash with contemporary beliefs, leading to rich character arcs. This dynamic creates opportunities for storytelling that reflects real-world changes, engaging audiences as they see parallels between the narrative and their own experiences in a shifting society.

Related terms

cultural norms: Cultural norms are the shared expectations and rules that guide behavior within a specific culture, often reflecting its values and traditions.

deviance: Deviance refers to behaviors or actions that violate established social norms, often leading to social disapproval or sanctions.

conformity: Conformity is the act of aligning one's beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors with the expectations set by social norms or the majority group.