What does 'role theory' propose in social psychology?

Role theory in social psychology posits that individuals' behaviors and attitudes are significantly shaped by the social roles they occupy within various contexts. This theory suggests that each role comes with specific expectations, norms, and behaviors that dictate how individuals should act in certain situations based on their position in society—be it as a parent, teacher, friend, employee, or any other role.

For instance, a teacher is expected to demonstrate authority and knowledge, while a friend may be expected to be supportive and casual. These expectations guide individual behavior and interactions with others, highlighting how social context can influence one's actions and identity. By acknowledging the power of social roles, role theory helps explain how people's actions can vary significantly across different environments and social settings, reinforcing the idea that context is crucial to understanding human behavior in social psychology.