Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Cultural norms are shared expectations and behaviors that are considered acceptable within a specific society or community. They shape our values, customs, and social interactions.
Related terms
Ethnocentrism: Ethnocentrism is the belief that one's own culture is superior to others.
Taboos: Taboos are socially unacceptable behaviors or practices within a particular culture.
Assimilation: Assimilation is the process of adopting the cultural norms and values of the dominant society while losing aspects of one's original culture.