Human Behavior

Human behavior refers to the entire range of actions or mannerisms exhibited by human beings. Human behavior is influenced by culture, genetics, and the attitudes and emotions of the individual. Human behavior is classified along a spectrum, from the common and accepted to the unacceptable. Studying and understanding various aspects of human behavior is the chief reason behind such disciplines as psychology, sociology, economics, anthropology, psychiatry, and social work.

Human behaviors are largely shaped by social norms. The various groups to which we belong, including the whole of our society, frequently dictates through unspoken rules, as to what is and is not acceptable behavior. All human societies have demonstrated these social norms, although they can vary from culture to culture.

Another dominant force in human behavior is what social scientists refer to as core faith. This includes behaviors influenced by religion and philosophy. Moral systems derived from personal beliefs in a higher power have a direct influence on the behavior of individuals.

The influence of biology on human behavior cannot be discounted. As early as 1869, Francis Galton wrote Hereditary Genius, which maintained that human behaviors are derived through biology. Modern geneticists look for genes that dictate various behavioral traits.