Which term refers to the expected behaviors and norms that govern the interactions of people within a culture?

The term that best refers to the expected behaviors and norms governing interactions within a culture is social norms. Social norms encompass the unwritten rules and expectations a society has regarding acceptable conduct, influencing how individuals interact in various situations, from casual encounters to formal relationships. These norms help maintain order and facilitate social cohesion by providing guidelines for behavior that align with the values and beliefs of a community.

Cultural practices refer to the more tangible activities and rituals that are part of a culture but do not capture the broader expectations and rules for interaction. Social contracts, on the other hand, are theoretical constructs in political philosophy that describe an implicit agreement among individuals regarding mutual benefits and liberties, rather than day-to-day social interactions. Folk traditions focus more on the shared customs, stories, and artistic expressions of a group rather than the governing norms of social behavior. Understanding the distinction among these terms highlights the significance of social norms in shaping interactions within a culture.