Expected standards of conduct, which influence behaviors, are known as:
- a. social norms.
- b. social loafing.
- c. social facilitation.
- d. deindividuation.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct answer: a. social norms.
Explanation:
Social norms are the expected standards of conduct within a group, society, or culture that guide and influence individuals’ behavior. These norms can be either explicit, such as written rules and laws, or implicit, like unwritten rules of politeness or cultural customs. Social norms function as a form of social control, shaping how individuals behave in various settings by establishing expectations for what is considered appropriate or acceptable conduct.
People tend to conform to social norms because they seek acceptance, avoid rejection, and generally want to fit in with a group. For instance, shaking hands when meeting someone, waiting in line, or dressing appropriately for certain occasions are all examples of socially accepted behaviors governed by norms. These standards often vary across cultures and social contexts, but they play a crucial role in maintaining order and predictability in social interactions.
There are two main types of social norms:
- Injunctive norms, which describe what people ought to do (e.g., tipping at restaurants, saying “thank you”).
- Descriptive norms, which reflect what people actually do (e.g., recycling if most neighbors do it).
Understanding social norms is crucial in areas such as psychology, sociology, marketing, and organizational behavior. In workplaces, for example, norms influence employee interactions, decision-making, and overall organizational culture.
The other options do not define expected standards of behavior:
- Social loafing refers to people putting in less effort when working in groups.
- Social facilitation is the improved performance on tasks in the presence of others.
- Deindividuation involves the loss of self-awareness in groups, often leading to behavior inconsistent with personal norms.
Therefore, the correct term that defines expected standards of conduct influencing behaviors is social norms.
