SOCIAL ROLES

Social groups of individuals are parts of society that execute specific functions and occupy different social positions. The social position of an individual (or status) is an identity that can result from his/her/their group membership in broad social categories, such as gender, nationality, ethnicity, and religious affiliation, or it can be more narrowly focused, such as social roles associated with family or career. Each social position entails different norms, beliefs, and attitudes. According to Role Theory, social roles can be defined as expectations held by the self or others of appropriate behaviors from a set of individuals in a given context and social position, or that perform a given function within a social group. They can also be defined as socially patterned human behaviors or repertoires that are characteristic of a set of persons within a particular context. For example, when moving to a different country, individuals must learn the set of actions expected from them in the new context and/or culture, accommodating new behavioral patterns. These expectations are based on shared values and are influenced by culture. They are learned or internalized through experience and socialization and influence human behavior, values, and identity because individuals often conform to them, due to social influence, exhibiting the expected attitudes and behaviors associated with the requirements of the social groups to which they belong, for example, being parents, athletes, teachers, or leaders.   

While performing a social role, individuals create identities that are part of their self-concept and inform them of their positions in the context of social relationships. Identities reflect currently held roles but can also reflect past roles or aspired roles. Role Theory highlights the congruence between the self and the social environment, such that role identities replicate individuals’ positions in the social structure. The coexistence of multiple social roles can produce role conflict (incompatible role expectations) or role overload (excess demand for one individual). Role expectations can also be inconsistent with individual needs and values. Behaviors that depart from role expectations can be considered inappropriate or deviant by society, and are thus subjected to punishment. 

Role Theory can be applied to policy analysis and international relationships by considering individuals as nations and groups as associations, communities, or organizations composed of countries acting in the global context. For example, countries can assume the national roles of international leaders, democracy protectors, aggressors, mediators, or partners. Thus, guiding their actions in the context of International Relationships considering the expectations held by their nation or other nations regarding appropriate behaviors in a given context and according to social position in the international system. Similar to individual social roles, national roles help define national identities. They result from domestic discussions in democratic countries, national economies, and social structures. 

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