Which term best describes the rules that define acceptable behavior in society?

The term that best describes the rules defining acceptable behavior in society is "norms." Norms are the unwritten guidelines that govern the conduct of individuals within a community or culture, shaping social interactions and establishing expectations. They encompass various aspects of behavior, including language use, etiquette, and moral expectations.

For instance, norms dictate how people should dress, greet each other, or conduct themselves in different social settings. By adhering to these norms, individuals contribute to the cohesion and functioning of societal groups. Norms are vital for understanding social order and can vary widely across different cultures and contexts, highlighting the diversity of human behavior.

In contrast, roles relate to the specific functions or behaviors expected of individuals in particular societal positions, such as the role of a teacher or a parent. Narratives involve the stories and accounts that give meaning to experiences and can shape norms but do not represent the rules themselves. Myths are traditional stories often explaining natural or social phenomena; while they can influence cultural norms, they are not the guiding rules governing behavior in society.