Which term describes informal norms that guide everyday behavior?

The term that describes informal norms guiding everyday behavior is folkways. Folkways are the established norms that dictate the routine and casual interactions in society. They encompass behaviors and practices that are considered acceptable and are often based on social customs. For example, simple actions like greeting someone with a handshake or saying "thank you" after receiving a service are guided by folkways.

These norms are not strictly enforced; rather, they are expected behaviors within a culture that contribute to social order and cohesiveness. Violation of folkways might result in mild social sanctions, such as disapproval or embarrassment, but usually not in severe consequences.

In contrast, mores refer to more significant societal norms that are fundamental to the group's ethics, while taboos pertain to practices that are forbidden or strongly frowned upon. Customs, while similar to folkways, generally refer to practices that might be more formalized and recognized within a specific cultural context, but folkways are specifically about everyday social behavior.