What does a norm refer to in a societal context?

In a societal context, a norm refers to a standard or pattern that is considered normal within a specific group or society. Norms are the unwritten rules and expectations that guide behavior, shaping how individuals are expected to act in different situations. They can vary significantly between cultures and communities and can influence everything from social interactions to lifestyle choices.

For example, norms can dictate how people greet one another, how they dress for different occasions, or what is considered acceptable behavior in public spaces. These standards help maintain social order by providing guidelines for acceptable behavior, facilitating smoother interactions among individuals within the society.

The other choices do not accurately capture the essence of what a norm represents. Options discussing discouraged behavior or abnormal behavior do not convey the idea of a norm being an accepted or expected standard within a society. Similarly, while norms may influence rules, they are not necessarily strict rules that must be followed; rather, they are more fluid expectations that can change over time or in different contexts.