Cultural norms are the rules that help people know how to act in a group, like a team or a family.
Imagine you're playing a game with your friends at recess. You all know when it's time to line up for the slide, no one jumps the queue unless they shout "I'm next!" That’s like a cultural norm, it helps everyone get along and have fun without arguing.
Like a Shared Recipe
Think of cultural norms like a recipe your family uses every Sunday for dinner. You know exactly what to do: you set the table, Mom cooks, Dad brings out the dessert. Even if someone new comes over, they’ll probably do the same things because that’s how it's always been done, and everyone knows it.
When Rules Change
Sometimes, rules can change too! If a new kid joins your class, they might not know to line up for the slide. But after a few days, they'll learn the way you all do things, just like learning a new recipe.
Cultural norms help people fit in and feel comfortable, whether it's at school, home, or even on a playground!
Examples
- A group of friends always says 'hi' before entering a room.
- At school, students stand when the teacher enters the classroom.
- In some countries, it's polite to take off your shoes before entering a home.
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See also
- What are cultural values?
- How Does Gender perception | Tara Downey | TEDxYouth@SHC Work?
- How Does Asking the Office for Women how they define 'woman Work?
- How Do I Know If I Am A Woman?
- How Does Outsiders & Outcasts (For Those That Don't Belong) Work?