Which term describes the expected behaviors associated with a given social position?

• A. Norm
• B. Identity
• C. Social role
• D. Pattern of behavior

Answer: (C)

The concept being tested is social role—the set of expectations, duties, and norms that come with a specific position in society. A social role defines how someone in that position is expected to behave, what responsibilities they have, and how others should interact with them. For example, in the nurse role, expectations include documenting observations, following infection control procedures, and communicating clearly with the patient and team. These are not just personal preferences or general guidelines; they are the specific behaviors tied to that position within the social structure.

A norm is a general rule of behavior within a group, not inherently linked to a particular position. Identity is about how a person sees themselves, which can influence behavior but is not the external set of expectations tied to a social position. A pattern of behavior describes regular ways someone acts but doesn’t specify the social position and its associated duties.

So the term that best fits “the expected behaviors associated with a given social position” is social role.