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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - The role of social norms in shaping behavior

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Topic: The role of social norms in shaping behavior

Model Answer:
In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in understanding how social norms influence human behavior. This essay will discuss the impact of social norms on individuals and society as a whole, and whether these norms are essential in maintaining social cohesion or if they limit personal freedom.

Social norms refer to the shared expectations within a community that guide people's behavior and decision-making processes. They can be formal, such as laws and regulations, or informal, like customs and traditions. These norms play an important role in shaping human behavior by providing individuals with a framework for understanding what is acceptable and unacceptable within their social environment.

On the one hand, social norms serve to maintain social cohesion and order by establishing common ground rules that allow people to interact harmoniously. For instance, traffic rules ensure safety on roads by requiring drivers to follow specific guidelines, such as stopping at red lights and yielding to pedestrians. Similarly, taboos against incest or cannibalism help uphold the sanctity of human life and protect society from moral decay. In this way, social norms contribute to a stable and predictable social order that facilitates cooperation among individuals and groups.

On the other hand, some critics argue that social norms may limit personal freedom and hinder individual expression. By imposing expectations on how people should behave, conforming to these norms can stifle creativity, innovation, and self-exploration. For example, traditional gender roles often dictate that men should be breadwinners while women should focus on domestic responsibilities, which may limit career opportunities for both sexes and perpetuate stereotypes about masculinity and femininity. Additionally, societal pressure to conform to beauty standards can lead to body dissatisfaction and eating disorders among individuals who feel they do not measure up.

In conclusion, while social norms play a crucial role in maintaining social cohesion and order, they may also impose limitations on personal freedom and self-expression. Striking a balance between adhering to social norms and preserving individuality is essential for promoting both social harmony and personal growth.

Overall, this essay demonstrates a clear understanding of the topic and effectively presents arguments in support of its thesis. The writer uses relevant examples and provides counterarguments, which contribute to a comprehensive analysis. As such, this essay would receive an overall Band Score of 7 or higher in IELTS Writing Task 2.

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