Which term describes the expectations set by society for an individual?

The correct answer, cultural norms, refers to the shared expectations and rules that guide behavior within a society or group. These norms shape how individuals are expected to behave in various contexts, influencing everything from social interactions to personal choices. Cultural norms can include customs, traditions, and accepted practices that are widely recognized and followed by members of a community. They essentially provide a framework for understanding acceptable behavior within a specific cultural context.

Understanding cultural norms is crucial for occupational therapy and many other fields, as it helps professionals to consider how these expectations might impact their clients' participation in daily activities and overall well-being. Recognizing the influence of cultural norms can enhance the effectiveness of interventions, ensuring they are respectful and relevant within the client's cultural framework.

The other options refer to different concepts: personal values pertain to an individual's beliefs about what is important, physical characteristics are traits observable in an individual, and social roles define how individuals act in particular situations or statuses within a society. Each of these plays a part in individual behavior but does not encompass the societal expectations like cultural norms do.