A norm is defined as expectations or rules of behavior that reflect and enforce behavior. (Henslin, 2009) When people are in public environments, we expect individuals to behave in certain ways. For example, when we stand in line to see a show or purchase an item, we expect everyone to stand in one line. We expect people to wait their turn as they proceed to the front of the line. Another expectation or norm is that we expect people to respect dining etiquette when eating at restaurants. We expect people to dine using the appropriate utensils. I thought of this example while thinking about an observation to make. I decided that I would take a risk and visit a well respected restaurant in my area and break the norm of eating with proper utensils. My port of call was an Italian restaurant in my hometown called Castiglias. Castiglias is a family-run Italian restaurant with a loyal customer base. I have visited the restaurant many times in the past but have not been back for several years. The restaurant is located in a shopping center with various other types of shops. From the outside the restaurant has a very commercialized facade. However, when you enter, the decor looks like that of a Tuscan village. The entrance is an arched opening with vines and pillars. There are no booths, all seating is at round tables ranging from large to small for intimate dining. The walls are decorated with arched windows that give the impression of overlooking an Italian city. I decide to conduct my observation at lunchtime during the week. One reason I wouldn't want to seem so obvious dining alone. The other reason is that the restaurant is well known for being busy with customers during this... middle of paper... appropriately. I told him I was fine and he left. It was intriguing because I noticed Tony's facial expression was one of disapproval. I also noticed that during meals he visited other tables two or three times, but mine only once. Even though it was a small experiment, I can see firsthand how social interaction can change from even the smallest gesture. After this experience I feel I am more aware of cultural differences. While people may not always conform to our perception of what is acceptable; it is this individuality, cultural differences and social chemistry that make the world so fascinating. As I discussed with my wife, cultures are something to be cherished and I hope to travel abroad to experience them first hand. Works Cited Henslin, James M. (2010). Sociology: a concrete approach, books in à la carte edition. Prentice Hall