How societal norms influence behavior?

Societal norms influence behavior greatly.

Explanation:

Societal norms are the social standards that are accepted in our society, and they have influences on our behavior, actions, morals, et cetera.

So let's think for a minute. Why do we wear clothes in public? Why do we hold doors for others? Why do we thank others when given something? Why do we say "bless you" after someone sneezes?

One could answer those questions by saying it's simply the right thing to do. Well is it? In some parts of the world, the exact opposite of what is listed above could be done, and it wouldn't be seen as taboo. The reason we have these unwritten "rules" in place is because it links back to our societal norms.

We do what is listed above because as a society, a majority of us do these things. It's considered normal; namely a "norm."