Re: Week 3 - Question 2: Function of norms in group

The functions of the norms in groups base on mutual acceptance of rule and behaviors. In Harris and Shelbolm’s text who mention, “Norms establish the accepted rules of behavior. These rules represent the shared values, procedures, and beliefs that guide group members in their communication and actions” (Harris/Sherbolm 48). The authors reveal the sharing of values and beliefs, the setting of procedures and guidelines for members’ communication and actions covering the forthcoming events or projects are the rules and behaviors in groups that are also the must.

In accordance with my previous experience, one of my norm groups expressed their spiritual support to me when I did not know how to work with our project at the first semester in the university. During working of projects, the members sent me the related links and reference books of research for my study. We also set up the procedures and guidelines for the entire project. In order to have the updated information of the project, we usually sent email or text messaging for our communication. Hopefully, we had completed the project on time and deserved the good grades at the end.

For the violation of a norm issue, I understand the violation of a norm based on the humanity of the members. In Harris and Sherbolm’s statement, “ A crucial norm, when violated, usually brings some type of censure” (Harris/Sherbolm” In addition, the authors also states, ”Violation of a peripheral norm – such as poor social etiquette, occasional bad manners, or mildly inappropriate behavior-make us uncomfortable” (Harris/Sherbolm 48). The authors expressed that violated norms show the unfriendly behavior and uncooperative attitude to other members that make the uncomfortable situation in discussion. Generally, I have not met any violated norms in our groups because most of the members are very cooperative, friendly, and patiently to me. In my opinion, the good behavior and habits are the primary impacts in the group norms. If the members can behave themselves, then the violation in norms will be avoided.