In behavioral science, social norms are the unwritten rules and expectations that govern the behavior of individuals within a society. These norms dictate how people are expected to behave in certain situations and can influence their actions, thoughts, and feelings. Social norms can be explicit, such as laws or rules, or they can be implicit, such as cultural values or beliefs. These norms are often enforced through social rewards for conformant behavior and punishments for non-conformant behavior. Social norms play a critical role in shaping individual behavior and promoting social cohesion.
