Breaking Social Norms: An Exploration of Reactions and Sanctions

Introduction

Social norms intricately weave the fabric of societal behavior, delineating customary rules within specific groups. This exploration delves into the nuances of social norms, with a keen focus on folkways—the informal, unstated rules governing our actions. Folkways, unlike formal laws, represent an adaptive behavioral mechanism that fosters social harmony. These norms, categorized as less essential to societal stability, offer a fascinating lens through which to study the intricate dance between individual behavior and societal expectations.

Violation of Social Norm

The decision to challenge the familiar act of handshaking served as the catalyst for this sociological experiment.

Folkways, as the informal fabric of societal guidelines, became the canvas for dissecting reactions within social interactions. This experiment sought to unravel the mechanisms of social control, where sanctions, whether positive or negative, act as pivotal forces in reinforcing or deterring norm violations.

Location Choice: South Coast Plaza Mall

The choice of South Coast Plaza Mall in Costa Mesa as the experimental stage added a layer of complexity to the endeavor.

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Renowned for its cultural diversity and opulence, the mall presented an intriguing backdrop for breaking social norms. The decision to initiate the experiment in this setting stemmed from a desire to observe reactions across a spectrum of demographics, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of societal responses.

Social Norm Violation Encounters

The initial encounter unfolded outside Macy’s Valet Entrance with a 20-something Persian woman. As I extended a handshake, her query about the concierge desk remained unanswered, and my gesture was met with a noticeable lack of reciprocation.

The discomfort arising from this negative informal sanction lingered as she departed, prompting contemplation on societal expectations and individual boundaries.

The subsequent interaction with a Hispanic woman, navigating the mall with a stroller and an inquisitive 5-year-old, took an unexpected turn. Despite the child's apparent interest, the woman feigned having her hands tied, dismissing my attempt at a handshake. The negative informal sanction left me grappling with a sense of public ridicule and rejection, shedding light on the societal aversion to norm violations.

Contrastingly, an encounter with an elderly Caucasian woman, accompanied by her granddaughter, provided a positive twist. The granddaughter's initial reluctance prompted the grandmother to emphasize the importance of politeness, resulting in a change in behavior. This positive formal sanction not only dissolved the discomfort but also initiated a conversation about changing societal manners, revealing the malleability of norms and the impact of positive reinforcement.

These encounters underscored the dynamic nature of societal norms and the varying responses individuals exhibit when faced with norm violations. The amalgamation of cultural backgrounds within this affluent mall setting brought forth a tapestry of reactions, offering valuable insights into the complex interplay between individual actions and societal expectations.

Norms in Society

Delving into the broader understanding of norms in society unveils their role as the bedrock of behavioral standards. These established norms, governing conduct and interaction, act as a linchpin for societal order. The coexistence of formal and informal norms paints a nuanced picture, where laws govern the legal realm, while informal norms guide everyday conduct. The importance of norms transcends mere compliance with laws, playing a pivotal role in shaping individual behavior within a societal framework.

Informal norms, such as folkways, often wield significant influence in shaping everyday interactions, contributing to the intricate social fabric. Their role becomes pronounced in the context of societal order, acting as unwritten guidelines that individuals navigate on a daily basis. The dynamism of these norms becomes evident as individuals respond to norm violations, showcasing the delicate equilibrium between personal autonomy and societal expectations.

Social Control and Sanctions

The concept of social control emerges as a pivotal aspect in enforcing societal norms, acting as a safeguard against potential chaos. Positive and negative sanctions serve as the tools through which society reinforces adherence to these norms. Positive sanctions, akin to rewards, can be witnessed in instances where individuals challenge norms for the greater good of the community, reminiscent of historical movements like Dr. Martin Luther King’s civil rights activism.

On the flip side, negative sanctions, expressions of disapproval, underscore the consequences of norm violations. These reactions can manifest in various intensities, ranging from mild and informal to severe and formal. The interplay of these sanctions in societal dynamics is a crucial aspect that shapes behavior and maintains order. The delicate balance between positive and negative sanctions mirrors the complex interdependence between individual actions and societal expectations.

Player Piano and Social Control

Drawing parallels with Kurt Vonnegut's "Player Piano," the novel provides a dystopian portrayal where social control takes center stage. Henslin's definition of social control as a group's formal and informal means of enforcing norms resonates deeply in Vonnegut's world. Positive and negative sanctions manifest in various forms, notably through the aptitude test that dictates one's future in the Army or the Reeks and Wrecks.

The societal structure depicted in "Player Piano" serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of challenging norms. Positive sanctions, represented by advancements for the community, and negative sanctions, symbolized by a limited future for those who fail the aptitude test, offer a poignant reflection on the power dynamics embedded in societal norms. Vonnegut's narrative serves as a cautionary tale, urging us to reflect on the potential ramifications of an overly controlled society, raising pertinent questions about the balance between societal order and individual autonomy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this experiment in violating social norms provided a nuanced exploration of the intricate dance between societal expectations and individual behavior. The reactions to a simple act like a handshake revealed the subtle yet powerful mechanisms of social control. The broader understanding of norms in society, coupled with insights from "Player Piano," provides a comprehensive view of the delicate balance that defines our shared existence. As we navigate the realm of social norms, the nuances of positive and negative sanctions serve as a constant reminder of the intricate web that binds us all, prompting a continual reflection on the evolving dynamics of societal order.