social norm

any of the socially determined consensual standards that indicate (a) what behaviors are considered typical in a given context (descriptive norms) and (b) what behaviors are considered proper in the context (injunctive norms). Whether implicitly or explicitly, these norms not only prescribe the socially appropriate way to respond in the situation (the “normal” course of action) but also proscribe actions that should be avoided if at all possible. Unlike statistical norms, social norms include an evaluative quality such that those who do not comply and cannot provide an acceptable explanation for their violation are evaluated negatively. Social norms apply across groups and social settings, whereas group norms are specific to a particular group. See also social convention.

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Psychology term of the day

May 9th 2024

ordinate

n. the vertical coordinate in a graph or data plot; that is, the y-axis. See also abscissa.