How does symbolic interactionism explain the formation of social norms?

Symbolic interactionism is a theory that focuses on how people create and understand meanings through their interactions with others. According to this theory, social norms develop as individuals communicate and share their thoughts and feelings. For example, when a group of friends agrees that being on time is important, they start to expect punctuality from each other. Over time, this expectation becomes a social norm within their group, as everyone understands and reinforces it through their interactions. Thus, social norms are not fixed rules but are shaped by the ongoing conversations and relationships among people.