What are some cultural norms that influence behavior?

What are some cultural norms that influence behavior?

Cultural norms are shared expectations and rules that guide behavior in a society. For example, in many cultures, greeting someone with a handshake is a norm, while in others, a bow is more appropriate.

Can you give me examples of how these norms vary across cultures?

Sure! In Western cultures, personal space is often valued, leading to a larger physical distance during conversations. In contrast, some Latin American and Middle Eastern cultures may prefer closer proximity.

How do these norms affect communication styles?

Cultural norms can greatly affect communication. For instance, in high-context cultures, much of the communication is implicit, relying on non-verbal cues, while low-context cultures prefer direct and explicit communication.

What happens when someone violates these norms?

Violating cultural norms can lead to misunderstandings or social disapproval. In some cases, it may even result in conflict or a breakdown in communication.