Which term defines the acceptable standards of behavior within a group shared by its members?

The term that defines the acceptable standards of behavior within a group shared by its members is norms. Norms are informal guidelines that dictate how members of a group are expected to behave and interact with one another. These standards emerge from the group’s collective experiences and are reinforced through social interactions, leading to a shared understanding of what is considered appropriate conduct within that specific group. Norms can influence various aspects of group dynamics, including communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution.

While rules, values, and policies serve important functions in an organization, they differ from norms. Rules are typically formal and specific directives set by an authority, whereas values represent the core beliefs that guide the behavior of individuals within the organization but do not necessarily dictate specific behaviors. Policies are formal guidelines that outline procedures or actions regarding organizational practices. In contrast, norms reflect the unwritten code of conduct that evolves within the group and may change over time as the group's dynamics shift.