Societal and Institutional Norms
Society is composed of a set of values, customs, traditions, and beliefs shared by members within a particular cultural group. These social structures are created through historical processes that have been developed over time and can be difficult to change. They provide stability and predictability to individuals and allow them to navigate their environment efficiently.
Societal norms also have many consequences for people's lives, including inclusion, relational satisfaction, and psychological wellbeing.
Inclusion
Inclusion refers to an individual's sense of belonging, acceptance, and connectedness with others. It involves feeling valued and appreciated for who they are regardless of differences in appearance, background, or identity. This is important because it allows people to feel safe and secure, which is essential for mental health and happiness. Unfortunately, societal and institutional norms often limit this feeling of inclusion as they favor specific groups or exclude others based on characteristics such as race, gender, sexual orientation, class, religion, etc.
Society has historically favored white men in positions of power and authority, while women and minorities have been marginalized or excluded altogether. This creates a sense of alienation and insecurity among those who do not fit these ideals.
Relational Satisfaction
Relationships are crucial for human development and well-being, but they can also be influenced by societal norms. The way we relate to each other is shaped by our culture, including the rules and expectations of how we should interact with one another.
Some cultures value intimacy and emotional closeness more than others, while others emphasize independence and self-sufficiency. Societal norms around relationships also impact how we communicate, express affection, and resolve conflicts, affecting our ability to form meaningful connections with others. Moreover, cultural norms that promote heteronormativity and monogamy may discourage alternative relationship structures such as polyamory or non-monogamy.
Psychological Wellbeing
Societal and institutional norms can also influence our psychological wellbeing, especially when they fail to meet our needs or values.
If we live in a society that promotes materialism, consumerism, or competition, we may feel pressure to achieve success and wealth at any cost, leading to anxiety, stress, and burnout. If our beliefs clash with prevailing norms, we may experience feelings of isolation, rejection, and depression.
Some societies prioritize conformity over individual expression, which can lead to anxiety disorders or low self-esteem.
How do societal and institutional norms affect inclusion, relational satisfaction, and psychological wellbeing?
Societal norms influence how people perceive themselves as outsiders or members of social groups, which can impact their relationships and mental health. Inclusion involves feeling accepted, valued, and supported by society, while relational satisfaction refers to the quality and depth of interpersonal connections. Societal norms can promote or hinder these feelings through various mechanisms, such as stigma and discrimination against marginalized groups or promoting conformity and homogeneity.