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role expectations

the traits, attitudes, and behaviors considered appropriate for an occupant of a particular position within a group or social setting. For example, being an elementary school teacher may be associated with expectations of warmth and patience, the desire to motivate students and help them achieve, and the ability to develop useful curricula and provide appropriate instruction. These expectations may be communicated to the occupant by other people in the occupant’s role set or may be held by the occupant himself or herself. See also Pygmalion effect; upward Pygmalion effect.

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Psychology term of the day

September 8th 2024

open hospital

open hospital

a psychiatric hospital without locked doors or physical restraints. Also called open-door hospital.