Which concept refers to the expectations that govern behavior within a society?

The concept that refers to the expectations governing behavior within a society is norms. Norms are the shared rules or guidelines that dictate how individuals should behave in various situations, helping to maintain order and predictability in social interactions. They can be formal, such as laws, or informal, like social etiquette, and they often vary across different cultures and communities.

Norms play a crucial role in guiding behavior by outlining what is considered acceptable or unacceptable within a given context. They help individuals understand their roles and the expectations of society, facilitating social cohesion and cooperation. Through the internalization of norms, individuals learn to navigate their social environments effectively.

Although culture, values, and social roles are important sociological concepts, they serve different functions. Culture encompasses the broader framework, including language, beliefs, customs, and practices shared by a group. Values provide the underlying principles that shape norms but do not directly dictate specific behaviors. Social roles refer to the positions individuals occupy within a society along with the behaviors expected of them, which are influenced by norms.