Which term refers to an understood rule for accepted and expected behavior that prescribes 'proper' behavior?

• A. Norm
• B. Deindividuation
• C. Social Loafing
• D. Group Polarization

Answer: (A)

Norms are the understood rules that guide accepted and expected behavior in a group or society, telling you what counts as proper conduct and what others will approve or disapprove of. Following a norm means aligning with shared expectations, while breaking one can bring social disapproval or sanctions. There are injunctive norms (what you ought to do) and descriptive norms (what people actually do). For example, waiting in line, speaking politely, and not interrupting others illustrate norms. The other terms refer to different social processes: deindividuation involves loss of self-awareness in crowds, social loafing is reduced effort when working in a group, and group polarization describes groups pushing toward more extreme positions after discussion.