When in Rome: The Story of Adapting to Global Norms

Photo by Joseph Reece on Unsplash

Imagine you’re walking through the bustling streets of Jakarta. The vibrant city life is all around you, but so is something else — litter. It’s a common sight in many parts of Indonesia, where public awareness and infrastructure for waste management are still developing. Now, picture an Indonesian traveler, let’s call her Wati, stepping off the plane in Singapore. She’s immediately struck by the cleanliness. Here, littering is not just frowned upon; it’s illegal, with hefty fines attached. Wati adapts quickly, making sure her trash always finds its way to a bin. This isn’t just Wati’s story; it’s a narrative shared by many who find themselves more disciplined abroad than at home.

Understanding the Shift

Why does this happen? It’s a question that takes us deep into the human psyche and the social structures that guide our behavior. Social psychologists point to situational compliance and social conformity as key drivers behind this phenomenon. In unfamiliar settings, especially those with different expectations and rules, we’re wired to adapt for self-preservation and social acceptance.

“Individuals adjust their behavior based on the context and perceived norms of the environment they are in,” explains Dr. Jane Goodall *, a social psychologist (and also a renowned primatologist and anthropologist). “This is often amplified when they are in a foreign country, where they face new laws and social cues.”

The Power of Laws and Norms

The interplay between legal frameworks and social norms cannot be overstated. Laws act as formalized norms, and when they change, so too does the social equilibrium. This, in turn, affects the descriptive social norm associated with a behavior. For example, when smoking in restaurants is fined, the act becomes not just illegal but socially unacceptable.

Strategies for Positive Change

How can we harness these insights for community betterment? Education, community engagement, and positive reinforcement are just a few strategies that can lead to lasting change. By creating an environment where desired behaviors are the easiest and most rewarding to follow, communities can shift their norms and expectations.