Definition§
Norm can refer to two primary concepts:
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Social Norm: A rule or standard considered to be acceptable behavior in a group or society. Social norms dictate appropriate conduct within a society or group and help in maintaining social order.
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Psychological Norm: In psychology, a norm denotes the average standard of achievement on a test for a selected group. These norms are used as benchmarks to assess individual performance against a pre-determined standard.
Examples§
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Social Norm:
- In many cultures, shaking hands when greeting someone is considered a norm.
- Standing in line to wait your turn is a social norm in most societies.
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Psychological Norm:
- Standardized test scores are often based on the norm established by administering the test to a representative sample of the population.
- Developmental milestones in children are established through psychological norms drawn from observing large groups of children.
Frequently Asked Questions§
1. What is the role of norms in society?
Norms help maintain social order and provide guidelines for acceptable behavior, thus facilitating predictability and stability within a group or society.
2. How are psychological norms determined?
Psychological norms are determined by administering standardized tests to a representative sample of a population and analyzing the results to establish benchmarks.
3. Can norms change over time?
Yes, social norms can evolve as societal values and beliefs change. Psychological norms can also change with advancements in our understanding of human behavior and cognition.
4. How do norms influence individual behavior?
Norms influence individual behavior by setting expectations for what is considered acceptable, thereby guiding individuals towards compliance to avoid social sanctions.
5. Are norms the same in every culture?
No, norms can vary significantly between cultures based on differing values, beliefs, and practices.
Related Terms§
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Socialization: The process through which individuals learn and internalize the norms and values of their society.
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Deviation: Departure from the accepted norms of behavior in a society or group.
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Standardization: The process of implementing and developing standards based on the consensus of groups, addressing norms within a broader context of quality and efficiency.
Online References§
Suggested Books for Further Studies§
- “Social Norms” by Cristina Bicchieri
- “Psychometrics: An Introduction” by R. Michael Furr
- “The Nature of Norms” edited by Vladimir J. Konecni
Fundamentals of NORM: Sociology and Psychology Basics Quiz§
Thank you for exploring the concept of NORM and challenging yourself with our quiz. Continue to deepen your understanding of societal and psychological principles!
