Social norms are like invisible rules that guide how we should behave in groups. They help shape what we think and how we feel about things. These rules are usually influenced by the culture we live in and the history behind it.

For example, people often change their opinions and actions to fit in with their friends or social groups. This can create a situation called "groupthink." Groupthink happens when everyone wants to get along so much that they make poor decisions because they ignore different ideas.

Social norms also play a big part in how we form our attitudes. When we see others in our group holding certain beliefs, we might start to believe the same things just to fit in. This creates a cycle where the group's beliefs become stronger, and individual ideas can change. For instance, if a person notices their friends supporting actions to help the environment, they’re likely to adopt those views too, even if they had different thoughts before.

Furthermore, social norms can significantly influence how we see ourselves. Wanting to belong can lead people to adopt the group’s attitudes as part of their own identity. Over time, this can change how they think and feel about many things.

In the end, understanding social norms is important. It helps us see how they influence our thoughts, feelings, and the choices we make in life. By recognizing these influences, we can think more carefully about our beliefs and how society affects them.