Intro Norms can be described as the behavioural guidelines that inform group members about the right thing to do in a social situation. Sociologists distinguish between different types of norms, usually in terns of the sanctions that the norms carry. For example, Coordination norms, or folkways can be described as the common practices that members of a society have adopted, more or less by chance. Examples might be driving on the right side of the road, etiquette and language, although they are not usually regarded as being of moral significance. Like folkways, Moral norms, or mores are passed down through the socialisation process, but are more associated with intense feelings of right and wrong. Examples, at least in western society might include queue jumping, adhering to religious beliefs, or fidelity in marriage. Both folkways and mores can cover a variety of behaviours, and represent the two extremes on a continuum of societal norms. Laws of course are formalised norms that specify the rules of behaviour, and the punishment for violation. This essay will ---- …show more content…
However, breakdowns can often be seen during periods of rapid social change, such as wars or natural disasters. To help with our understanding of the norms of a society or group, sociologists make a distinction between the traditional norms of a culture, and the real norms by which people actually live. Some norms are so ingrained that individuals do not even think about them, until a violation makes them