Group norms act as a collective of actions and value systems established by the group. Some actions are accepted while others are not. Norms are put into place as acting guidelines to adhere by. The these guidelines are important and are set/agreed upon by the group as a whole. These guidelines can include, values, beliefs, procedures and behaviors. Norms influence our actions within our group. Norms define the group atmosphere by telling us what we can and cannot do. Norms can be viewed as expected behaviors for the group and not abiding by these rules may have consequences.
A norm that my social group has is not telling each other we are available to go out if we are not sure, or may change our minds. It is well known within our group that if you are not sure about your schedule and whether or not you will be available to actually attend a function that you don't make the commitment in the first place. For example if I was asked to go out with my friends and I wasn't sure I would say "Well maybe, but I will let you know for sure later In the week", but just yesterday one group member had made plans with three other group members two weeks ago for last night, and waited until four p.m. to text one group member and flake out. Now that the norm has been ignored the group has no choice but to choose to not include this other group member in its invitations for events or to accept the failure to adhere to the norm.
Every group has norms that they set either explicit or implicit, but it is important to utilize these norms as a way to build a stronger group not to eliminate or belittle individuals within the group.
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