Which term describes shared expectations of behavior that are culturally and socially desirable?

The term that describes shared expectations of behavior that are culturally and socially desirable is "norms." Norms are the informal guidelines that govern behavior in groups and societies. They shape how individuals are expected to act in various social situations, providing a framework for acceptable conduct. Norms can vary widely between different cultures and can influence everything from daily interactions to broader social practices.

Values refer to the core beliefs and ideals that a society holds dear, often influencing the development of norms. While customs encompass traditional practices and rituals that may embody specific norms, they do not solely define the behavioral expectations within a society. Rules are formalized principles that dictate allowed or forbidden actions, usually enforced by institutions or authorities, but they may not capture the broader and more flexible nature of social expectations that norms represent. Norms serve as the everyday reflections of values, demonstrating how those foundational beliefs translate into practical behavior in social contexts.