Sanctions are rewards or punishments; which are used to, enforce social norms and establish social control within a society. Definition explains two components of sanctions, which are; “Positive sanctions” (rewards) and “Negative sanctions” (punishments). Negative sanctions impose on those individuals; who do not conform to social norms. On the other hand, Positive sanctions enforce on those; who conform to social norms. For instance, if we follow the rules and regulations of society; we will be rewarded but, if we don’t; we will be punished. Social norms are established and executed (via punishment and reward) for the reason, to sustain order in a given society. In addition, there are two types of sanctions; formal sanctions and informal sanctions.
As, cultural components (norms, values and beliefs) are associated with one another. Similarly, sanctions are correlated with social norms. Therefore, Formal norms are enforced through formal sanctions, by legitimate authority but, informal norms are imposed through informal sanctions, by members of group or, society. “Formal sanctions” refers to, rewards or punishments to enforce formal norms (which are written rules and laws). On the other hand, “Informal sanctions” refers to, rewards or punishments for imposing informal norms (which do not have written rules and laws)
Individuals socialize in different social institutions within a society. Each institution have norms and sanctions to enforce institutional norms. When a children socialize in family, they are told how to behave in different situations by parents. If they behave accordingly they are rewarded and if not they are punished. For instance, if a child study hard for school test and pass it with flying colors, his parents might buy him bicycle. If a teenage boy attend late night party without his parents’ permission, he may be grounded for a week or two. These are informal sanctions imposed on children, to enforce family norms. Informal sanctions trains individuals for future social process within different social institutions of society.
Suppose, if a coach send 12 players in football field, team will be penalized 15 yards. Recreational institutions have written rules for conduct. Negative formal sanctions are imposed on teams and players, for not obeying the rules of game. Moreover, if individuals violate the traffic rules they get ticket and will have to pay penalty for misconduct. This scenario explains the formal norms of conduct, enforced by the public agencies. Formal and informal sanctions are important to maintain order in a society and to sustain relationships in social institutions.
Social values differ among individuals and groups within a given society. Each society has its own culture but, within a culture other subcultures subsists too. Thus, values amongst subcultures differ relatively but, similarities surpass differences within a culture. Furthermore, Norms are being established to support and protect cultural values. Social values which are collectively shared and cherished within a society, turn into formal norms (laws). Whereas, those values which are not collectively shared and less regarded, becomes informal norms. Similarly, shared norms which are most valued in a society will be formally and heavily sanctioned. Whereas, least regarded and valued social norms, carry light or informal sanctions. For instance, if an individual go for an interview in casual dress, he will not be punished. However, organization may not consider him for the vacant position. On the other hand, if a person enter naked in public place or, in public office he will be arrested for misconduct. Covering body is shared value but, with what kind of attires is least regarded value within a society.
Written By Khushdil Khan Kasi
