Society is comprised of people with different backgrounds, beliefs, values, and customs. These diverse views are shaped by culture, religion, education, upbringing, and environment. Societal norms define acceptable behaviors and expectations within a group. Institutional norms determine how an organization functions according to rules and regulations. Both play crucial roles in shaping experiences of inclusion and marginalization. This article explores how societal norms and institutional norms affect individuals' perceptions of themselves and others.
Societal Norms
Societal norms are the set of accepted standards and practices that guide behavior in society. They dictate what is appropriate for each person based on their age, gender, ethnicity, social class, profession, and more.
Some cultures consider it unacceptable for women to work outside the home, while others promote equality between genders. Some communities frown upon same-sex relationships or interracial marriages. Individuals who deviate from these societal norms may feel excluded or rejected.
Institutional Norms
Institutional norms refer to guidelines established by institutions such as schools, governments, businesses, sports teams, clubs, etc. They outline specific procedures and policies for members to follow. Institutional norms can create obstacles or barriers to participation, particularly if they exclude certain groups.
A company might require a college degree for employment but exclude those without one. Inclusion can lead to marginalization if individuals do not meet these criteria.
Intersectionality
Intersectionality refers to overlapping identities such as race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, socioeconomic status, disability, and more. These factors interact with societal and institutional norms to shape individual experiences. A Black woman living in a patriarchal society faces discrimination due to her race and gender. An LGBTQ+ employee working at an organization that does not support diversity faces prejudice because of their identity. This creates a cycle where people are both included and marginalized simultaneously depending on their situation.
Societal and institutional norms play significant roles in shaping inclusion and marginalization. Understanding this helps individuals recognize how they fit into different contexts and navigate them effectively. It also encourages organizations to adopt inclusive practices to embrace diverse perspectives and break down barriers.
How do societal and institutional norms jointly shape experiences of inclusion and marginalization?
Societal and institutional norms are often interconnected, and they both play a significant role in shaping an individual's experience of inclusion or marginalization. Inclusiveness involves individuals being valued for their unique perspectives, abilities, and contributions, while exclusion occurs when people are overlooked due to preconceived notions about their backgrounds or identities.