Final answer:
Social norms consist of informal and formal rules that dictate acceptable behavior within a culture. These informal norms are learned through socialization and observation, guiding everyday interactions and practices such as greetings and dining etiquette.
Step-by-step explanation:
The forms and informal rules regarding what kinds of behavior are acceptable and appropriate within a culture are known as social norms. These informal norms are learned behaviors that dictate the cultural expectations without the need for written rules. Folkways, for example, are everyday norms that dictate how to behave in daily practices without moral implications, varying widely from culture to culture.
People acquire these norms through observation, imitation, and general socialization. They are key in helping individuals negotiate their daily lives and include behaviors such as greetings, dining etiquette, and personal interactions. While formal norms, like laws and regulations, are explicitly stated and enforced, informal norms are often unstated yet widely understood within a culture.
In different cultures, behaviors such as the appropriate way to greet someone, dress for an event, or engage with others in public spaces are all influenced by informal norms. Learning and adhering to these norms is essential for social conformity and smooth social interactions within any given culture.