Social Norms And Social Integration

Social integration refers to the process in which individuals come together to form a cohesive group. Social integration builds bonds between individuals creating unanimity, which aid groups in working towards goals in an efficient manner. Norms are one such integration mechanism. Norms are the shared beliefs or expectations as to what is deemed appropriate within a group. In addition, norms are guidelines that regulate behavior that promote social cohesion and in doing so, norms lessen the need for external regulating forces. Moreover, roles are the shared expectations of the functions of individuals within a group and the tasks that the individual group member is expected to carry out. The implication of roles within groups is that they
provide for a division of labor and power. Lastly, status hierarchies serve as a mechanism of social control within a group. Depending on the status of an individual whether they are low-status, medium-status, or high-status determines the potential for a member or individual to rebel or deviate from accepted norms. Those in a medium or high-status position are less likely to deviate from norms, as a way of maintaining status. Furthermore, those who are low status may also feel compelled to conform or stay in line with accepted norms as a way of climbing in rank or in retaining power. Those who deviate from norms may be threatened with sanctions that could result in loss of status or group membership, which ultimately serve as a deterrent from deviating from such norms.