SECTION A

INDIVISUALS, GROUPS AND SOCIETY

Characteristics of Social Groups
A primary social group:
• Is small
• Members interact frequently and directly,
• Relationships are personal Membership is normally involuntary, e.g., a family.
Secondary social groups:
• Are larger and less personal
• Interaction is less frequent or temporary
• The group may be organized split into smaller work groups, e.g., a school committee.
Cohesion within Social Groups
• Cohesion- The state of being bound together
Groups need to have cohesion.
Formal groups that have a clear aim work best with a figure of authority to facilitate and guide
the group, often delegating tasks.
Leadership styles range from dictatorial to democratic. A successful group requires
commitment and loyalty from members and acceptance of the group leader.
Characteristics of institutions
• Social Institutions
Over time, a social norm becomes accepted practice. Handshaking, conversing with others,
dressing appropriately and celebrating birthdays are all social norms.
• Organizational Institutions
Organizational institutions (large, established and often influential groups within society) are
secondary formal groups that share certain characteristics.
Functions of Institutions