Social norms are important rules that help people know how to behave in groups. They help keep things in order, make people feel connected, and strengthen the group’s identity.

How Social Norms Affect Us:

1. Influencing Behavior: Research shows that about 70% of people go along with group norms, even if they don’t agree with them. For instance, in Asch's famous experiments, many people (around 37% of the time) agreed with wrong answers given by others in the group.

2. Belonging to a Group: Groups often push members to fit in with social norms. Studies reveal that going along with these norms can increase the group's sense of togetherness by 50-60%. This helps everyone feel like they belong and share a common identity.

3. Roles in Groups: Different people in a group often take on specific roles that come with their own norms. For example, leaders are expected to be decisive and in charge, while other members are expected to share ideas and support the leader. About 52% of people in group studies recognized themselves in specific roles, showing how they acted in ways that matched what was expected.

What Happens if You Don’t Follow Norms?

• People who don’t follow the group's norms might face some form of backlash. Statistics show that around 77% of groups will take some action against those who break the norms to encourage everyone to stick to them.

Quick Stats to Remember:

• Conformity rate: 70% of people go along with group norms.
• Correct answers in Asch's studies: 37%.
• Increase in group togetherness: 50-60% from conformity.
• Role recognition in groups: 52% of people see themselves in certain roles.
• Groups acting against rule-breakers: 77% do something about it.

In short, social norms greatly affect how we act in groups. They guide how we interact with others and shape both individual and group behavior.