Breaking the Rules: Examples of Informal Norms in Everyday Life
Do you always follow the rules? Probably not. In fact, informal norms shape our everyday behavior more than formal rules. Informal norms are unwritten expectations of how we should behave in various situations, and they can be just as important as official laws and regulations.
In this article, we’ll explore some common examples of informal norms and how they influence our behavior.
The Norm of Personal Space
One of the most common informal norms is the norm of personal space. In most cultures, people have clear expectations of how far apart they should stand from one another during different interactions. For example, you might stand closer to a friend than to a stranger, or give more personal space to someone who is upset or angry.
Violation of the norm of personal space can result in discomfort or even hostility. If someone stands too close to you, you might back away or feel uneasy, even if they haven’t done anything else to make you feel threatened.
The Norm of Eye Contact
Another informal norm that we often follow without even realizing it is the norm of eye contact. In many cultures, it is considered respectful to make eye contact when speaking with someone. Similarly, avoiding eye contact can be interpreted as a sign of deception or rudeness.
However, cultural norms surrounding eye contact can vary widely. For example, in some Asian cultures, making direct eye contact can be seen as a sign of disrespect or aggression. In these cultures, people might avoid eye contact out of respect rather than rudeness.
The Norm of Queueing
Queueing is another informal norm that is highly valued in many cultures. A queue is simply a line of people waiting for something, such as a bus or a ticket. In cultures that value queueing, people are expected to join the end of the line and wait their turn.
Violation of the norm of queueing can lead to frustration and anger. If someone tries to cut in line ahead of you, you might feel justified in confronting them or reporting them to an authority figure.
Conformity and Deviance
Finally, it’s important to note that informal norms are not always positive or healthy. In some cases, they can lead to conformity and stifling of individuality. For example, in some high-pressure workplaces or schools, employees or students might conform to informal expectations to avoid standing out or being punished for deviance.
In other cases, informal norms can be harmful, such as when they promote discrimination or violence. For example, in some cultures, it is considered acceptable to discriminate against people of different races or religions, or to use violence to resolve disputes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, informal norms are an important aspect of our everyday lives. They inform how we behave in various situations, and can have significant social consequences. By being aware of informal norms and working to challenge harmful or unhealthy ones, we can contribute to a more equitable and just society.
