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Fields of Study That Consider Normative Reactions
The study and documentation of normative reactions in terms of human emotion is usually included in the field of psychology. Sociology considers normative reaction from a different angle. Pressures due to societal stresses, as an example, can contribute to reactions that are outside the boundaries of what is considered acceptable, but that might be understandable when considered in their overall context.
It is similar to the study of anthropology when considering cultural differences in groups. What might be considered a deviant reaction in one culture and even punishable by law might be considered normative in another culture. To bury one's own baby, for example, in most modern cultures is not a normative reaction, but for some Amazonian Indian tribes, it is a normative reaction within the context of the specific culture if a baby is very ill.
Cultural Implications and Expression of Emotion
Normative emotional reactions vary from culture to culture. To joke, laugh and drink alcohol at the funeral of a loved one might not be normative in most cultures, but in certain cultures, it is both normative and part of the process of coping and grieving. While some cultures might look with disdain upon the expression of emotion, for other cultures, suppression of emotion is not considered normative. It stands to reason, then, that the expression of emotion will vary considerably in the wake of extraordinary or non-normative situations.
Normative Reactions and Modeling
We learn through education and instruction but also by modeling the behavior of our caregivers. Example is as powerful an instructor as words. Our normative reactions, then, are often contingent upon the behavior and reactions of our parents or caregivers. Similarly, modeling by therapists can help clients modify their reactions to situations in which they might react in ways which are out of the range of normalcy within their community.
Normative Reactions and Therapeutic Counseling
Jerrold R. Brandell, of the Wayne State University School of Social Work, in his book "Theory &Practice in Clinical Social Work," states that therapists may need to counsel clients as to normative reactions in the grieving process when facing the death of a loved one. While crying for days or feeling emotionally numb for weeks might not be normative under usual circumstances, it might be a normative reaction to the death of a spouse, parent or child.
Psychology professor Marsha Linehan from the University of Washington states that self-disclosure by the therapist of his own conflicts with normative reactions in the mainstream community can help put the therapist on common ground with the client. This can create an atmosphere whereby the therapist can help the client understand better how to fit his behavior, or reactions, into that of the larger community.