Sociology / Unit 3 Soc 0314 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Positive and Negative Sanctions
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The idea
A positive sanction rewards conforming behavior; a negative sanction penalizes departure. Either may be formal or informal.
In practice
A bonus and a fine are formal; a compliment and a raised eyebrow are informal. All four teach the same rule.
Where people slip
Students often assume rewards are informal and punishments formal, but the bonus and fine above show both directions run through both channels.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
Builds on
Unlocks
- Nothing yet depends on this.
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