Group Norms: 25 Examples and Their Impact

Group norms are the often unspoken rules that guide how people behave when they’re part of a group. The norms we follow at work, at school, and in our social relationships set the expectations for what is typically considered acceptable. They can be as simple as showing up on time or as complex as unwritten social codes that shape how we interact. Understanding group norms is important, largely because these norms play such a big role in how we relate to others. They influence how we function within a group, but they can even affect how we see ourselves.

In this article, we’ll break down what group norms are and why they matter. We’ll also take a closer look at some common examples of how these norms pop up in different settings. Group norms are always influencing our behavior. This includes when we are working in a team on the job, when we are participating in a social club, or even when we are taking part in an online group on social media. Let’s look more closely at how these invisible rules shape our interactions.

What Are Group Norms?

Group norms refer to the unwritten rules or expectations that guide how members of a group behave. These norms create expectations and guidelines about what’s acceptable or unacceptable in a group. This can influence everything from how we communicate to how we behave. The goal? To help create a sense of order and predictability. This helps to make groups more cohesive and helps interactions run more smoothly.

Why Group Norms Matter

Group norms can play a big role in how groups function. They serve to:

• Regulate behavior: They help maintain order by establishing clear boundaries for what’s appropriate.
• Create group identity: Norms give groups a shared sense of purpose or culture by reinforcing what it means to be part of the group.
• Influence social dynamics: Following the group norms can help people gain a greater sense of belonging. On the negative side, breaking norms can lead to conflict or cause people to be excluded.

The Psychology Behind Group Norms

Psychologists recognize that group norms have a major impact on social behavior and group dynamics. Several psychological concepts can help explain why group norms are so influential:

• Conformity: This is the tendency to adjust your behavior to fit the expectations of the group. People are often motivated to conform to avoid social rejection or gain approval.
• Social influence: Group norms reflect the power of social influence. In other words, the behaviors, attitudes, or emotions of one group member affect how others act, think, and feel.
• Social identity theory: This theory suggests that group norms strengthen our sense of identity by making us feel part of a collective. When we follow these norms, we feel more connected to the group.

Common Features of Group Norms

Group norms vary across different settings, but they often share some common features:

• Unspoken: Most group norms aren’t officially stated but are understood through observation. However, some may be articulated more formally as laws, guidelines, or regulations.
• Shared: They are adopted and upheld by the majority of the group.
• Dynamic: Norms can evolve as the group grows or changes.

Not all group norms are the same. Some are directly stated, while others are simply understood through observation. To make sense of how group norms work, it helps to divide them into different types based on how they’re communicated and enforced.

Types of Group Norms

Explicit vs. Implicit Norms

Explicit Norms: These are the rules that are clearly stated and often written down. You’ll find explicit norms in places like workplaces, schools, or organizations where formal guidelines are set. For example:

• A company’s dress code
• A classroom rule that students must raise their hands before speaking
• A sports team’s practice schedule

Implicit Norms: Unlike explicit norms, these aren’t directly communicated but are learned by observing the group. They develop naturally and may not even be noticed until someone breaks them. Examples of implicit norms include:

• Standing in line without cutting
• Greeting someone with a handshake in certain cultures
• Keeping quiet during a movie

Prescriptive vs. Proscriptive Norms

Group norms also differ based on whether they encourage or discourage certain behaviors:

Prescriptive Norms: These are the “do’s” of group behavior—actions that are expected or encouraged. They tell group members how they should behave. For instance:

• In the workplace: Greeting coworkers when you arrive in the morning.
• In a classroom: Participating in group discussions.
• In social settings: Offering a smile or wave when you see a friend.

Proscriptive Norms: These are the “don’ts”—behaviors that are discouraged or frowned upon within the group. Breaking proscriptive norms can lead to social disapproval. Examples include:

• In the workplace: Showing up late to meetings.
• In social groups: Interrupting others while they’re speaking.
• In family settings: Using phones at the dinner table.

Formal vs. Informal Norms

Formal Norms: These norms are established through official policies or rules. Unlike unwritten or unspoken norms, formal norms tend to have clear consequences if they are broken. For example, a company might have formal policies on work attire or attendance that are documented in an employee handbook.

Informal Norms: These norms are more casual and are developed over time based on shared habits or values. They might not have any formal consequences, but breaking them can still lead to tension or awkwardness. For example:

• A group of friends always sitting in the same spot at lunch.
• A family where everyone helps clean up after dinner without being asked.

How Do Group Norms Form?

Group norms don’t just appear out of nowhere—they develop over time through interactions, experiences, and external influences.In order to understand why certain behaviors become expected in a group setting, it can be helpful to look at some of the factors that influence their formation.

Interaction and Experience

• Natural evolution: Most group norms form organically as members interact and settle into routines. The more people spend time together, the more certain behaviors become the “norm.” For example, in a study group, if everyone starts meeting at the same time each week, it gradually becomes an unspoken rule.
• Observing others: Newcomers often pick up on group norms by observing how others behave. If you join a new team at work, you’ll quickly notice how coworkers interact—whether they email after hours, if they take lunch breaks together, or if meetings are casual or formal.
• Trial and error: Sometimes, group norms are established by trying different behaviors and seeing what works best. If a team project keeps getting delayed because members aren’t contributing on time, the group might agree to set clearer deadlines, creating a new norm for future tasks.

External Influences

• Cultural norms: Broader cultural values play a huge role in shaping group norms. For example, in many cultures, it’s considered respectful to listen without interrupting during conversations. This cultural expectation might become a norm within a group, even if it’s never explicitly discussed.
• Organizational rules: In formal settings like workplaces or schools, group norms are often shaped by external guidelines or policies. A company may have specific rules about behavior that influence how employees act around each other, such as maintaining professionalism in meetings or addressing clients in a particular way.
• Leadership influence: Group leaders often set the tone for what’s acceptable. Their behavior can either reinforce existing norms or introduce new ones. If a manager always thanks team members for their contributions, it may become expected for everyone in the group to show gratitude.

Negotiation and Agreement

• Unspoken agreements: Many group norms are formed through silent agreements. For example, in a group of friends, if everyone automatically agrees to split the bill when going out to eat, it becomes a norm, even if it’s never openly discussed.
• Explicit discussion: Some norms are deliberately established through conversations. This is more common in structured settings like workplaces or project teams. For instance, a team might explicitly decide that all emails should be responded to within 24 hours to keep communication flowing smoothly.

Adapting to Change

• Shifting Norms: Group norms aren’t set in stone—they can shift as the group’s needs or environment change. If a team grows larger, norms about communication and decision-making may need to adapt to keep everyone in sync.
• Introducing New Members: Whenever new people join a group, they bring fresh perspectives and habits, which can alter existing norms. The group might adopt some of the new member’s behaviors or reinforce their current norms to maintain the status quo.

Examples of Group Norms

Group norms can vary depending on the setting—whether it’s a professional environment, social circle, or family. To give you a clearer picture of what these norms look like in real life, here are 25 examples across different contexts.

1. Punctuality: Arriving on time for meetings and work hours.
2. Dress code: Following formal or casual dress expectations
3. Email etiquette: Responding to emails within a certain timeframe, usually 24 hours
4. Collaboration: Encouraging teamwork and sharing information across departments
5. Break time habits: Taking lunch or coffee breaks at similar times as colleagues
6. Feedback culture: Providing constructive feedback during team meetings
7. Meeting protocol: Speaking one at a time and avoiding interruptions
8. After-hours work: Expecting availability for urgent matters outside of regular work hours
9. Raising hands: Students raising their hands before speaking in class
10. Active participation: Contributing to class discussions and group projects
11. Homework deadlines: Submitting assignments by a specific due date
12. Respecting personal space: Giving classmates space and avoiding overly close interactions
13. Classroom cleanliness: Leaving desks clean and organized before leaving
14. Use of technology: Only using phones or laptops for class-related activities during lectures
15. Mealtime routine: Eating dinner together at a set time each evening
16. Chore division: Splitting household chores among family members
17. Screen time rules: Limiting TV or device use during family time or meals
18. Holiday traditions: Following family customs like specific holiday meals or gift-giving rituals
19. Communication style: Using calm, respectful tones during family discussions
20. Text response time: Responding to group texts within a certain time, like a few hours
21. Inside jokes: Sharing and referencing specific inside jokes that bond the group
22. Celebrating milestones: Always getting together to celebrate birthdays or achievements
23. Sharing costs: Splitting bills evenly when eating out or attending events
24. Rotating hosts: Taking turns hosting group hangouts or dinners
25. Photo sharing: Making sure everyone agrees before sharing group photos on social media

The Impact of Group Norms

The ways we act in different settings, including social events, professional contexts, and family settings, are affected by different group norms. When we are part of a group, that group’s norms subtly influence how we act and the choices we make.

For example, if your employer values punctuality, employees are more likely to prioritize being on time. This not only allows them to meet the expectations of the job but also to fit in with the group. There are also unwritten rules about communicating or interacting with other people in different social settings. Following these norms helps us to maintain harmony and avoid conflict.

Conformity is one of the most powerful effects of group norms. Even when people have their own preferences, they have a strong desire to belong and be accepted. This often leads them to behave in ways that are aligned with the standards and expectations of the group. And it can pay off with positive outcomes, including stronger teamwork and mutual respect. However, it can also lead to negative behaviors if the group norms encourage unhealthy habits or social exclusion. 

Final Thoughts

Group norms play a powerful role in shaping behavior and creating order and a sense of belonging in various group settings. By understanding these norms, we can better manage our social interactions and recognize when conformity is helping or hindering us. By reflecting on the norms that we follow, we are able to better adapt and make more informed choices within our groups.

Sources:

Hernandez, A.E. (2011). Norms. In: Goldstein, S., Naglieri, J.A. (eds) Encyclopedia of Child Behavior and Development. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-79061-9_1991

Roberts, S. O., Ho, A. K., & Gelman, S. A. (2019). The role of group norms in evaluating uncommon and negative behaviors. Journal of Experimental Psychology. General, 148(2), 374–387. https://doi.org/10.1037/xge0000534