Which type of norm is strongly held and can lead to severe disapproval if violated?

Mores are the norms that are deeply rooted in a culture and carry a strong moral significance. They dictate what is considered right and wrong within a society and often reflect the values and ethical standards that a community upholds. When individuals violate mores, the repercussions can be severe, including social ostracism, stigma, or even legal consequences in certain situations. This strong reaction arises because mores typically cover issues that are essential to the social fabric, such as prohibitions against theft, violence, or infidelity.

In contrast, folkways are social norms that are more customary and less strictly enforced; violations tend to result in mild reactions rather than strong disapproval. Laws represent formalized rules that are enacted by a governing body and entail legal penalties for violations. Taboos are the most extreme types of mores, involving prohibitions against behaviors that are considered so unacceptable that even thinking about them can provoke a strong reaction, but they don't encompass all societal mores. Therefore, while all the choices involve norms and social behavior, mores are particularly significant due to their implications for societal morality and cohesion.