What term outlines a set of expectations about how individuals in a certain social position should behave?

The term that defines a set of expectations regarding how individuals in a specific social position should behave is known as a social role. Social roles encompass the behaviors, responsibilities, and norms that are commonly associated with different positions within social groups. For instance, the social role of a teacher includes expectations such as instructing students, providing guidance, and maintaining classroom order. These roles help individuals understand their place within a society and how they should interact with others in similar or different positions.

Cultural norms, while related, refer more broadly to the shared values and expectations within a culture as a whole, rather than the specific behaviors associated with a societal position. Occupational standards typically refer to the benchmarks or expectations tied to specific workplaces but may not capture broader social behaviors. Behavioral guidelines can provide advice on how to act, but they lack the formalized structure that roles within social positions provide. Thus, social roles are foundational in shaping individual behavior in relation to their designated social context.