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 serve as unwritten rules for how members of a group are expected to behave in different situations. Social norms can vary widely across cultures and social contexts, but they are powerful in shaping how people act, communicate, dress, and even think.
There are two main types of social norms:
- Injunctive norms: These involve perceptions of what behaviors are approved or disapproved by others.
- Descriptive norms: These are perceptions of how people actually behave, regardless of whether the behavior is approved.
For example, in many cultures, greeting someone with a handshake or saying “thank you” are examples of socially expected behaviors. If someone deviates from these expectations, they may be viewed as rude or inappropriate, which demonstrates the influence of social norms.
These norms play a crucial role in socialization, helping individuals learn how to behave appropriately within their society. They also contribute to group cohesion and predictability, which make social interactions smoother and more efficient.
Now let’s compare this concept with the other choices:
- b. Social loafing refers to the tendency of individuals to put in less effort when working in a group compared to when working alone. It is related to group dynamics, not behavioral expectations.
- c. Social facilitation is the tendency for individuals to perform better on simple tasks or well-learned tasks in the presence of others. It relates to performance rather than norms.
- d. Deindividuation refers to the loss of self-awareness and individual accountability in group settings, often leading to behaviors that a person wouldn’t typically engage in alone.
Therefore, “social norms” is the best answer because it directly relates to the expected standards of conduct that guide and influence behavior.