What are Informal Social Sanctions?

Informal social sanctions refer to the unspoken, often unwritten rules and expectations that govern behavior within a group or society. These norms can influence how individuals act and interact within a community without the need for formal laws or official disciplinary actions.

The correct choice highlights that these sanctions are “widely known but unexpressed rules of group membership,” meaning that while individuals may not explicitly state these norms, they are understood by members of the group. This can include social cues, peer pressure, or informal reactions, such as disapproval or exclusion, that serve to encourage conformity and discourage deviance, ultimately maintaining social cohesion.

In contrast, explicit punishments for deviant behavior are typically associated with formal sanctions and rules that are clearly communicated. Legal penalties prescribed by law are also formal and tie directly to the criminal justice system. Finally, formal policies enacted by organizations involve established procedures and regulations that are clearly documented and followed within that context. Informal social sanctions, therefore, operate in a different realm, focusing on the often subtle and powerful influence of social norms.