Once a behavior, such as mask wearing during a pandemic, becomes a social norm, what is the word which defines people’s way of adapting their behavior to the once odd requirement?
A rejection
B conformity
C compensation
D rebellion Incorrect
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is B. conformity.
Conformity refers to the act of changing one’s behavior or attitudes in order to align with the expectations or norms of a group. When mask-wearing becomes a social norm, individuals adjust their behavior to fit this newly established rule. Initially, it may have been seen as an odd or uncomfortable requirement, but as it gains acceptance in society, more people adopt it to blend in with the majority.
Conformity can happen for a variety of reasons. In some cases, it may be driven by the desire to be accepted by others or to avoid social rejection. Other times, individuals may conform because they believe it is the right thing to do, or they see it as necessary for the greater good. In the case of mask-wearing during a pandemic, the act of conforming to this norm helps reduce the spread of the virus and shows solidarity with the community’s health efforts.
Conformity can be either positive or negative. In some cases, it promotes social harmony and collective action, like in the case of health measures such as mask-wearing. In other situations, it may lead to peer pressure or the suppression of individuality. However, when a behavior is recognized as a social norm, individuals often feel compelled to conform, not just because of social pressures but also because it is widely accepted and expected by society at large.
In this scenario, as more people wear masks to protect themselves and others, their actions reflect conformity to the social norms that arise from a shared understanding of what is necessary during a pandemic.