What term refers to a set of expected behavioral patterns attributed to someone occupying a given position within a social unit?

The term that refers to a set of expected behavioral patterns attributed to someone occupying a given position within a social unit is "role." In organizational behavior, a role outlines the expected behaviors, responsibilities, and duties associated with a specific position. This concept is critical because it helps individuals understand their responsibilities within a group or organization, guiding how they should interact with others and perform their tasks.

Roles can vary widely across different contexts and organizations, and they help establish a framework for behavior and interaction among members of the social unit. For example, within a team, the roles might include leader, facilitator, contributor, or innovator, each with distinct expectations that drive team dynamics and effectiveness.

Understanding roles is essential for achieving organizational goals, as clearly defined roles can enhance communication, reduce conflicts, and improve overall group cohesion. The other terms, while they may relate to behavior in a social context, do not specifically encompass the idea of assigned expectations tied to a position within a social unit as accurately as "role" does.