Prescriptive norms

Prescriptive norms are informal rules that guide how people are expected to behave in a given situation. They outline accepted or appropriate actions within a social or cultural context, influencing behavior by encouraging conformity to certain standards. Unlike laws, prescriptive norms are not enforced officially but are upheld through social approval or disapproval. For example, saying "please" and "thank you" or dressing appropriately for an event are behaviors shaped by these norms. They help maintain social order, trust, and cooperation by promoting behaviors that are considered respectful and desirable within a group.