Social institutions

Definition

Social institutions are complex, integrated sets of social norms and structures that fulfill essential functions in society, such as family, education, religion, government, and economy. They regulate individual and group behaviors and serve as a framework for societal order.

Related terms

Norms: Norms are shared expectations or rules of behavior that guide members of a society on how to act in specific situations.

Culture: Culture encompasses the beliefs, behaviors, objects, and other characteristics common to the members of a particular group or society.

Functionalist Perspective: The functionalist perspective views society as a complex system whose parts work together to promote solidarity and stability