Cultural Norms

Definition

Cultural norms are the shared expectations and rules that guide behavior within a specific group or society. These norms shape how individuals act and interact with one another, influencing everything from daily routines to major societal practices. They are fundamental to maintaining social order and cohesion, as they provide a framework for acceptable conduct and contribute to the identity of a community.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cultural norms can be explicit, such as laws and regulations, or implicit, like unwritten social rules and expectations.
2. Norms can vary significantly across different cultures and societies, meaning what is considered acceptable in one culture may be viewed as deviant in another.
3. Changes in cultural norms often occur due to factors such as technological advancements, social movements, or shifts in collective values.
4. Cultural norms play a crucial role in establishing group identity and cohesion, helping members feel connected and aligned with each other.
5. Norms can influence individual behavior significantly; for instance, peer pressure can lead individuals to conform to group expectations even when they conflict with personal beliefs.

Review Questions

• How do cultural norms influence individual behavior within a society?
  • Cultural norms set the guidelines for what is considered acceptable behavior within a society. Individuals learn these expectations through socialization processes and often conform to them to gain acceptance or avoid social sanctions. This conformity helps maintain social order, as most people will align their actions with the established norms of their community.
• In what ways can cultural norms change over time, and what factors contribute to this transformation?
  • Cultural norms can change due to various factors including technological advancements, globalization, and social movements that challenge existing values. For instance, increased awareness of issues like gender equality has led to shifts in norms regarding gender roles. These transformations often reflect broader societal changes and can lead to new expectations that redefine acceptable behavior.
• Evaluate the impact of deviance on cultural norms and the process of social change within a community.
  • Deviance plays a complex role in shaping cultural norms; while it challenges established behaviors, it can also lead to significant social change. When individuals or groups deviate from accepted norms, they may provoke discussions that question the validity of those norms. If enough people adopt deviant behaviors, it can prompt a reevaluation of what is considered normal, potentially leading to new societal standards and changes in cultural expectations.

Related terms

Socialization: The lifelong process through which individuals learn and internalize the values, beliefs, and norms of their culture.

Deviance: Behavior that violates societal norms, which can lead to social sanctions or consequences for the individual.

Subculture:

A smaller cultural group within a larger culture that has its own distinct values, norms, and practices.