What are general expectations regarding acceptable group behavior referred to as?

The term that describes general expectations regarding acceptable group behavior is "group norms." Group norms are the unwritten rules and shared standards that guide the behavior of individuals within a group. These norms help establish how group members are expected to interact, communicate, and work together, promoting an understanding of appropriate conduct among the members.

In any group setting, norms emerge through the interactions and experiences of the members, influencing everything from decision-making processes to conflict resolution and communication styles. They can be explicitly discussed or may develop more subtly over time. The presence of strong group norms can contribute to a positive group environment and enhance group performance.

Understanding group norms is essential in management and organizational behavior, as they can significantly impact team dynamics and overall effectiveness. The other options, while related to group behavior, do not specifically define the expectations of how members should act within the group. Group roles refer to the functions individuals play, group dynamics focus on the interactions and processes within the group, and group cohesion pertains to the bonds that hold the group together.