_____ are socially defined expectations that individuals in a given s…

_____ are socially defined expectations that individuals in a given situation are expected to fulfill.

Answer & explanation

Correct answer: option 2

The correct answer is Option (2) → Roles

Option (1) Norms — Incorrect. Norms are expected standards of behaviour and beliefs established, agreed upon and enforced by group members, a group’s ‘unspoken rules’. They apply to all members alike, not to the expectations attached to one position.

Option (2) Roles — Correct. Roles are socially defined expectations that individuals in a given situation are expected to fulfil, the typical behaviour of a person in a social context. As a son or daughter, one is expected to respect elders and be responsible towards one’s studies.

Option (3) Status — Incorrect. Status is the relative social position given to group members by others, ascribed (as by seniority) or achieved (by expertise or hard work). It is a rank, not a set of expectations to fulfil.

Option (4) Cohesiveness — Incorrect. Cohesiveness refers to togetherness, binding or mutual attraction among group members; in a cohesive group members think, feel and act as a social unit. It describes the team spirit of the whole group, not what is expected of a person in a given position.

Note 1: The same question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2023 on 02-06-2023 (Slot 1).

Note 2: A similar question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2026 on 29-05-2026 (Slot 2).

NCERT (2025-26): “Nature and Formation of Groups … Four important elements of group structure are :

Roles are socially defined expectations that individuals in a given situation are expected to fulfil. Roles refer to the typical behaviour that depicts a person in a given social context. You have the role of a son or a daughter and with this role, there are certain role expectations, i.e. including the behaviour expected of someone in a particular role. As a daughter or a son, you are expected to respect elders, listen to them, and be responsible towards your studies.…”

“…Norms are expected standards of behaviour and beliefs established, agreed upon, and enforced by group members. They may be considered as a group’s ‘unspoken rules’.…”

“…Status refers to the relative social position given to group members by others. This relative position or status may be either ascribed (given may be because of one’s seniority) or achieved (the person has achieved status because of expertise or hard work).…”