Violating Social Norms

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There are many ways in which society can influence our behavior. In many cases, expectations seem to dictate how we react to a given situation. Social norms have dictated our lives for thousands and thousands of years now. A social norm is an expected form of behavior in a given situation. It can also be described as the “proper” way to behave in the given circumstances. The textbook discusses norms as “a fundamental element of social structure: the cement of society” (P. 167). An example of a social norm is that students are expected to arrive to class and complete their assigned work on time. These social norms provide order in society but is arguable also harmful to society. One article called “Violating Social Norms when Choosing Friends:

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