“Norms establish the accepted rules of behavior.” (Harris & Sherblom) Basically, norms guide the group members thinking and actions to pursue the ways that are accepted, valued and trusted to the well being of the group. Norms also function in giving the member of the groups’ a feeling of connectedness with the other members. In addition, when one conforms to group norms it will bring a sense of belongingness and it shows commitment to other group members; as a result, it might also increase the loyalty of the group members.
A few years back, a group of friends and I dined with a man who was visiting from another country. He came from a country where burping was a compliment to the cook. After we had a very good meal, he loudly burped. I felt that was a violation of a norm of dining with people. Nobody actually said anything to him directly, but I could tell through facial expressions almost all of us felt a violation of a norm. The reason being is that we all had a background where burping in front of people (especially while they are eating) was impolite.
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Nathan, I thought that your explanation of norms was really great. I also liked the norm violation that you discussed. I think that it is really rude to burp, and I couldn't even imagine what it would be like it someone ate a nice meal and let out a loud belch. Sometimes when I am with friends at a social gathering and someone decides to burp, I always think it is rude, even though I know sometimes it is hard to avoid. I think it is a norm that when you do have to burp, to make it as quiet as possible.
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