The Power of Examples of Informal Sanctions in Shaping Behavior

The Power of Examples of Informal Sanctions in Shaping Behavior

When it comes to shaping behavior, there are formal and informal sanctions that are used to encourage or discourage certain actions. Formal sanctions are imposed by a recognized authority, such as a government or a court of law. On the other hand, informal sanctions are non-formal means of social control, which could be a social gesture, verbal reprimand, or other types of social pressure.

In this article, we will delve into the concept of informal sanctions and how it shapes behavior. We will also examine the power of examples of informal sanctions and their influence on individuals’ actions.

What are informal sanctions?

Informal sanctions are mainly used in situations where formal sanctions may not be practical or necessary. They are usually based on social norms, values, and beliefs that guide behavior. Informal sanctions can be mild, such as a disapproving look, or more severe, such as social ostracism.

Examples of Informal Sanctions

There are various examples of informal sanctions used to shape behavior. Let’s look at some of them:

– Peer pressure: This is one of the most common forms of informal sanctions. It involves the use of social influence from friends, family, or acquaintances to encourage or discourage behavior.

– Public shaming: This type of informal sanction involves publicly criticizing or ridiculing someone for their behavior. Public shaming can be seen in social media activism where people use hashtags to call out inappropriate behavior.

– Positive reinforcement: This is a reward-based approach where desirable behavior is encouraged through rewards such as praise or recognition.

– Video surveillance: Monitoring behavior through video surveillance in public places has been shown to influence behavior positively.

The Power of Examples of Informal Sanctions

The power of examples of informal sanctions lies in their ability to shape behavior positively or negatively. This is because informal sanctions are typically based on social norms, values, and beliefs. When individuals observe how others are being sanctioned, they tend to adjust their behavior to conform to what is considered acceptable behavior.

For instance, when people see others being praised for environmentally-conscious actions, they are likely to replicate the same behaviors. Similarly, when one sees others being shamed or criticized for littering, they are less likely to litter as well.

Conclusion

In summary, informal sanctions are a powerful tool in shaping behavior. They encourage individuals to act in a socially acceptable manner and discourage behavior that is considered taboo. The power of examples of informal sanctions lies in their ability to influence individuals positively or negatively, depending on the behavior being observed. Therefore, it is essential to consciously promote the use of informal sanctions, especially in situations where formal sanctions may not be practical or necessary.