"Sociology"

Social Situations

Think about each of the following social situations. What are some of the norms that you follow and/or expect others to follow in each situation? What happens if someone "violates" one of these norms? How do you react? How might others react?

(1) You are looking for a parking space at Wal-Mart.

The norm in this situation would be first come, first serve. Everyone should be driving fairly slow. If someone broke this I'd honk at the car violating the norms and give the driver a mean look. Others could react violently and begin to road rage or even physically harm the driver.

(2) You are in an elevator.

In an elevator when the door opens you allow whoever is inside to leave before entering. Inside, besides a polite greeting, it should be quiet. If someone were to violate this it could to lead to some awkward silence. I would feel a little uncomfortable, but maybe others may find it funny and laugh.

(3) You are in a movie theater watching a movie.

In a movie everyone should be quiet, off their phones, and avoid making out. Violating these norms could make viewers uncomfortable and really irritated. Personally, I would stare at whoever is violating these norms but that's about it. Other would probably shout at the them to stop or shush them.

(4) You are at a high school sporting event.

The norms would be for everyone to be cheering loud and full of spirit. If someone is violating these norms it isn't really a big deal. I wouldn't mind if there are some who are quietly watching the game. Another person may feel it's their duty to encourage that person to be louder and start cheering.

(5) You are at a restaurant.

At a restaurant I expect all the employees to polite when I order food. People at restaurants should avoid being too loud and control their children. If either of these two norms are violated, people may get a little irritated. I would simply give a complaint to the manager if an employee or family was being inconsiderate. I would expect others to react the same way.

(6) You are walking through a musuem.

Everyone in the musuem should be a little quiet and be respectful of the people around them. Also, no one should be touching any of the exhibits or artifacts. I wouldn't really mind the noise, but if someone were messing with the exhibits I would tell security because they could destroy something historical. Other people may do the same or even go out of their way to tell the offender to quiet down.