Which type of norm is created as after-the-fact justifications?

Descriptive norms are behaviors that are observed in a given context and can provide an understanding of how people typically act in certain situations. They serve as social proof, illustrating what is commonly done. In contrast to other norms, which might prescribe specific behaviors, descriptive norms often emerge from observing past actions and justifying them subsequently.

When individuals engage in a behavior and later justify it through after-the-fact reasoning or rationalization, these justifications reflect the establishment of a norm that describes the action taken. Therefore, descriptive norms are rooted in actual practices rather than in ideals or rules; they stem from what people perceive others to do and how those actions are interpreted over time. This understanding highlights how behaviors can solidify into social norms based on collective experiences and shared justifications, influencing future actions within a group.