Social Groups: Definition, Types, Importance, Examples

Definition of Social Groups

• A social group comprises two or more individuals sharing a common social identification.
• Social identification distinguishes social groups from aggregates (e.g., people at a bus stop) and categories (e.g., race, gender).
• The feeling of belonging is crucial in defining a social group.

Types of Social Groups

Primary Groups

• Small and tightly knit, with strong emotional bonds.
• Family is a typical example.
• Emotional attachment is central to the group.

Secondary Groups

• Large, impersonal groups.
• Bound by shared goals or activities rather than emotional ties.
• Examples include employees at a company.
• Members may form primary groups within secondary groups.

Reference Groups

• Used as standards for evaluating oneself.
• Typically, out-groups from which individuals aspire to belong.

In-Groups and Out-Groups

• In-groups: groups which individuals prefer or have affinity towards.
• Out-groups: groups outside one's own group, often leading to intergroup aggression and prejudice.

Group Behaviour and Social Roles

Group Behaviour

• Cohesive social relationships displayed within groups.
• Driven by social/psychological interdependence.
• Leads to organized role relationships and the creation of social norms.

Social Roles

• Individuals adopt roles that shape their behavior within groups.
• Social roles change according to group settings, e.g., family vs. workplace.

Leadership Roles

• Leaders influence group members, roles may be explicit or implicit.
• Leadership can be instrumental (goal-focused) or expressive (harmony-focused).
• Leadership styles: democratic, laissez-faire, authoritarian.

Norms

• Expectations of behavior within a group.
• Can be general or role-specific norms.
• Influenced by group goals and leadership, or external reference groups.

Importance of Social Groups

Socialization Process

• Primary groups (family, friends) crucial for socialization and identity development.
• Cooley's theory: self-identity develops through social interaction.
• Primary groups provide comfort and support.

Identity Development

• Rapid in childhood but continues throughout life.
• Influenced more by primary than secondary groups.

Psychological Support

• Primary groups offer emotional support.

Example and Contributor

• Natasha Dmello, a communications and sociology student, contributed to the understanding of these concepts.