A social institution is a structured system that organizes and governs social behavior within a society. These institutions, such as family, education, religion, economy, and government, provide frameworks for individuals to interact and fulfill their needs. They help maintain social order and stability by establishing norms, values, and roles. Each social institution plays a specific role in society. For example, the family is responsible for nurturing and socializing children, while education imparts knowledge and skills. Religion often provides moral guidance, economy facilitates the production and distribution of goods, and government enforces laws and regulations. Together, these institutions shape the way people live and interact.