Question

Sociologists argue that we internalize some norms so that we feel guilty or “icky” if we break those norms. What is an example from your own life of a norm that you’ve internalized? Why do you think you’ve internalized this norm? (Think about rules or behaviors that you’d feel guilty breaking or things that you can’t imagine doing because they would be really bad or gross to help you find an example).

Answer 1

One norm that I have internalized is the concept of personal hygiene. I feel guilty and uncomfortable if I neglect to brush my teeth or take a shower for an extended period of time. This norm may have been internalized through various socializing agents like my family, friends, and the media.

From an early age, my parents instilled in me the importance of good personal hygiene as a basic requirement for maintaining health and well-being. They set rules such as brushing teeth twice a day, taking a daily shower, and keeping clean clothes. Through their consistent reinforcement of these hygiene practices, I slowly internalized them, and now they have become a part of my routine.

Additionally, the influence of friends and societal expectations also played a role in internalizing this norm. Growing up, I observed that people who maintained good hygiene were generally well-regarded and respected within social circles. On the contrary, those who disregarded personal cleanliness often faced social stigma or were perceived negatively. Consequently, I recognized the importance of conforming to personal hygiene norms in order to avoid the potential negative consequences.

Furthermore, the media, including advertisements and movies, consistently portray good personal hygiene as desirable and attractive. This constant exposure to messages emphasizing cleanliness and freshness further reinforced the norm within me.

Overall, the internalization of the personal hygiene norm can be attributed to a combination of parental influence, social expectations, and media representations. The guilt or discomfort I feel when neglecting personal hygiene is a result of this internalization and the fear of deviating from societal standards or facing potential negative judgments.