Types of Norms

Formal Norms:

These are written, explicit rules and laws that are enforced by official institutions such as governments, school, and workplaces.

Examples

Company policies

Official codes of conduct

Laws, regulations

Characteristics of Formal Norms:

Enforced by Authorities:

Consequences for Violations:

Codified:

Clearly documented and accessible.

Institutions like police, courts, and administrative bodies.

Legal penalties such as fines, imprisonment, or discipline actions

Purpose of Formal Norms:

1.) Ensure consistency and fitness in societal operations.

2.) Protect individual rights and maintain public order.

Informal Norms

These are unwritten rules and expectations that are understood and followed by members of a society.

Examples

Dress code, traditions

Customs

Social etiquette

Characteristics of Informal Norms:

Learned through Socialization:

Enforced by Social Approval or Disapproval:

Unwritten:

Not official documented but widely recognized

Passed down through family, friends, and community interactions.

Through mechanism like peer pressure, social sanctions, and cultural expectations,

Purpose of Informal Norms:

2.)Promote a since of belonging and community identity.

3.)Preserve cultural and social traditions.

1.)Facilitate smooth social interactions.