Feeling Rules

Feeling rules are informal social guidelines that dictate how individuals should express their emotions in various situations. These rules shape our expectations about what feelings are appropriate in different contexts, such as at work, in public, or during personal interactions. For example, it may be seen as inappropriate to show anger at a funeral or excessive enthusiasm in a serious meeting. Understanding these rules helps navigate social interactions and maintain harmony in relationships, as abiding by them fosters social acceptance and emotional alignment with others' expectations.