Folkways And Social Norms

A folkway is a custom of everyday life. Folkways are normal expectations on how we act. In contrast with mores, they are both social norms but are enforced differently. Folkways are not as strict as mores. Folkways are merely social expectations while mores are strict beliefs. Mores dictate what is right and wrong, while folkways dictate what is rude and proper behavior. Norms are like folkways in that they are both specific cultural expectations on how to behave. Each culture has their own norms, which differ from culture to culture. What might normal for one culture may not be normal for another. Sanctions are rewards or punishments based on a norm that is connected with an appearance or behavior.
I work at a restaurant in Downtown Bakersfield. I see plenty of norm violations. Almost everyday I see something new. Let me begin with these two ladies who decided to come eat when I was working. I was running around, doing my job and then all of a sudden I see these two ladies walk in with a three foot doll in their arms. I thought that maybe it was for a child or they just when early Christmas shopping. I was …show more content…
Folkways tell us how to act normal from when we wake up, to when we go to sleep. According to Crossman, “Folkways are often referred to as "customs." They are standards of behavior that are socially approved but not morally significant. They are norms for everyday behavior that people follow for the sake of tradition or convenience. Breaking a folkway does not usually have serious consequences.” Although everyone takes norms, folkways, mores, values and sanctions for granted, it is amazing seeing first had how everyday norms and folkways play into the smallest of situations. Even when ordering at a restaurant, the norms change from when ordering fast food. The sanctions also change and make things uncomfortable, as like my situation. I loved doing this and I will definitely do it again