Which of the following statements about social norms is true?

Social norms are essentially the unwritten rules that govern behavior within a group or society, shaping the expectations of acceptable conduct. The statement that social norms influence how individuals act within social groups is accurate because these norms provide guidance on how to behave in various social contexts. They help maintain order and predictability in social interactions and are often internalized by members of a group, leading to conformity in behavior.

Understanding social norms is crucial in terms of social psychology, as they can affect individual choices, social relationships, and group dynamics profoundly. For example, norms surrounding politeness or honesty influence how people communicate and interact with one another in everyday situations.

The other options do not fully capture the essence of social norms. While some norms may promote individualism in specific contexts, they are primarily designed to foster group cohesion and collective behavior rather than prioritizing individual interests. Moreover, social norms extend beyond formal settings and play a vital role in informal environments such as friendships, family dynamics, and community interactions. Lastly, while personal beliefs can influence one’s adherence to social norms, the norms themselves are a collective understanding that transcends individual perspectives, thus they are not solely relevant to personal beliefs.