Understanding Informal Sanctions: Definition and Examples
If you’ve ever been grounded by your parents or received a detention in school, you’ve experienced informal sanctions. Informal sanctions refer to unwritten rules or expectations that are enforced through social means rather than legal ones. They are often used as a way to maintain social order, promote desirable behavior, and deter undesirable behavior. In this article, we will dive deeper into the definition and examples of informal sanctions.
Defining Informal Sanctions
Informal sanctions can be categorized into positive and negative sanctions, depending on the type of behavior they reinforce. Positive sanctions are used to reward desirable behavior, such as compliments, promotions, or awards. Negative sanctions, on the other hand, are used to deter undesirable behavior, such as criticism, social disapproval, or exclusion.
While formal sanctions are written into laws and codes, informal sanctions are enforced through social norms, culture, and traditions. They vary between societies, regions, and even communities. For instance, in some cultures, it is customary to tip servers at restaurants, whereas in others, it is considered inappropriate.
Examples of Informal Sanctions
1. Social Disapproval – This is a negative sanction that involves shaming or disapproving of someone’s behavior. For instance, if someone wears inappropriate attire to a formal event, they may receive negative comments or glares from others. Similarly, if someone talks during a film screening, they may receive shushes or complaints from other movie-goers.
2. Peer Pressure – Peer pressure is a positive or negative sanction that involves a group of peers influencing an individual’s behavior. For instance, if a group of friends encourages someone to smoke or drink, they are applying positive peer pressure. Similarly, if they criticize someone for not participating in an activity, they are applying negative peer pressure.
3. Statutes of Behavior – This is a set of unwritten rules that define acceptable behavior in a particular context. For instance, in a classroom, students are expected to arrive on time, pay attention, and participate in discussions. If someone violates these statutes, they may receive criticism or a negative evaluation from the teacher.
4. Social Rewards – Social rewards are positive sanctions that involve praise or recognition for desirable behavior. For instance, if an employee goes above and beyond their duties, they may receive a promotion, a raise, or a favorable recommendation from their supervisor. Similarly, if a student performs well on a test, they may receive a high grade or a congratulatory note from their teacher.
Conclusion
Informal sanctions are an integral part of society and play a significant role in regulating behavior. They can be positive or negative, and they differ across cultures and contexts. Understanding informal sanctions can help us navigate social situations, avoid undesirable behaviors, and build positive relationships with others. As you move through life, keep an eye out for informal sanctions – they are all around us.
