Conformity Unit 2
Definition Conformity = Conventional behavior To be similar / the same Behavior governed by prevailing attitudes and opinions
Social Control Internalization Process by which a norm becomes part of an individual’s personality
Social Control Sanctions Rewards or punishments used to enforce conformity to norms Positive vs. Negative Sanctions Positive = reward Negative = punishment
Social Control Formal vs. Informal Sanctions b. Informal Sanctions: Spontaneous expressions given by members of group Positive: Applause, compliments, smiles Negative: Frowns, scolding, insults, being ignored a. Formal Sanctions: Consequences applied by officials or organizations Positive: Good grades, pay raises, awards/medals Negative: Speeding ticket, detention, imprisonment, low grades
Subcultures Groups that share many elements of mainstream culture but maintain their own distinctive customs, values, norms, and lifestyles Based on: Age, gender, wealth, sexual preference, education, occupation, ethnicity, music, etc. Examples: The Amish, residents of Chinatown, soldiers in the military, Gypsies, etc.
Countercultures Deliberately and consciously opposed to certain central beliefs or attitudes of the mainstream culture Organize because of: Inequalities of class, race, age, gender, etc. Examples: Punk, Gang members, Hippies
Table Talk What are the differences between formal and informal sanctions? What is the difference between a sub culture and a counter culture?