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A norm is an obligation that is imposed on a certain person or group. They are mandates aimed at regulating human behavior.
The conventional standards They are social norms that were created to regulate human behavior in a certain context, community or society. They must be respected by all members and are not detailed in a legal document (unlike legal standards). For example: not yelling at the movies, saying "thank you" and "please".
Its objective is to promote respect and tolerance among all members and achieve a harmonious coexistence aligned with the values of the institution, community or society. Conventional standards are found in various settings such as a football club, a bank or on the street.
They are based on traditions, habits or customs and may vary according to the culture and beliefs of the communities. For example: in Eastern countries it is customary to eat with your hand; while such behavior is not customary in a Western country.
- It can help you: Difference between norm and law
Characteristics of conventional standards
- They were created to promote order in society and avoid social tensions and conflicts.
- They are found in almost all areas in which a person develops and this must adapt to them.
- They can indicate a behavior to follow or one to avoid.
- Non-compliance can lead to rejection by the group or community.
- They are transmitted by the family (from generation to generation), by the social environment, the school or by campaigns organized by the State.
- They can vary over time.
- They can be exhibited in written form depending on the cases, although there is no obligation in this regard.
- They are more rigid or flexible depending on the context. For example: they are not the same conventional norms in a courtroom as in a nightclub.
- They do not need the endorsement of the State, although in no case can they go against the legal norms.
Examples of conventional standards
- Stand in line at the bank to be attended and not use the cell phone.
- Be silent when entering a church.
- Respect the assigned shift when attending the doctor.
- Do not yell in a restaurant.
- Respect recess times at school.
- Do not smoke in public spaces.
- Be silent in a sanatorium / clinic / health center.
- Do not listen to loud music on public transport.
- Do not throw the garbage in the street.
- Take care of cleanliness in public toilets.
- Cover your mouth when yawning.
- Do not honk at the tollbooth.
- Give the seat to pregnant women, the elderly or people with disabilities in public transport.
- Don't burp in public.
- Don't sneak into a line.
- Tipping in bars and restaurants.
- Talking quietly on public transportation.
- Do not touch works of art or run in museums.
- Chew with your mouth closed in a restaurant.
- Yield to the pedestrian.
- More examples in: Social, moral, legal and religious norms.
