Informal sanctions

Definition

Informal sanctions are unwritten, unofficial reactions or penalties for behavior that violates social norms without breaking formal laws. They are enforced by community members rather than by legal authorities and can vary greatly in form, from social ostracism to verbal ridicule.

Related terms

Social Norms:

The accepted behaviors and beliefs of a group or society that guide individuals' actions and interactions.

Deviance:

Behavior that violates the standards of conduct or expectations of a group or society, often leading to negative sanctions.

Formal Sanctions: Penalties or rewards officially imposed by an authority figure or institution to enforce compliance with laws or regulations