Question

Objective: To examine the power of groups to influence our behavior.

Instructions: Objectively examine group dynamics within the workplace, family, classroom or while shopping. Describe the different types of groups you see (at least two groups must be discussed) and identify the characteristics (at least two characteristics) associated with the groups you have identified.

Successful completion of this activity requires you:

1. To provide a description of the different types of groups you see within a social environment. At least two groups must be discussed and you must identify the setting in which you are observing the group behavior. The response to this part of the activity must be at least 150 words

2. Based upon the types of groups identified above describe at least two characteristics associated with the groups you have identified. For example if you observed primary groups and reference groups within the setting observed you will need to identify two characteristics associated with primary and reference groups. The response to this part of the activity must be at least 150 words and it needs to be cohesive

Answer 1

Social groups are integral part of society and they exist everywhere. The social groups are formed on the basis of some ideology, relationship and business transactions. There are mainly two social groups- primary social groups and secondary social groups. Primary social group includes family, close relatives, close friends etc. Secondary social group includes class mates, neighbors, play mates, known persons, political friends, union members etc. All the social groups are interrelated and they bear different functions. Society largely depends on the activities of the social groups. On the other hand, the social stability and peace also depend largely on the activity of the different social groups. In an individual's life the primary group is more important. In social life secondary group is really significant. But there is also the influence of the primary group.

Family: Family is a primary group. In individual's life the first importance is family. It bears the common characteristics like:

• All the family members are guided by the family rule and ethics. They are to obey the family rules and they must obey the elders.
• Family is ruled by the head of the family members and there is a bonding of live in the members. All are committed to each other.

Union: Union is an important social group and it is a secondary group. It bears the following characteristics:

• All the members of the union are united with common purpose with same ideology. They do movement with common purpose.
• They are strictly led by standard ethics. Therefore they can maintain unity.