Groups

Objectives Summarize the major features of primary and secondary groups. Identify the purposes and roles that groups fill. To identify the informal and formal groups that exist within our lives.

What is a group? Four major components: Two or more people Must be interaction amongst people Shared Expectations Posses a sense of common identity

Characteristics of Groups 1.Structured Interaction  People involved in groups may not be together every day but when they reassemble there is a familiarity to their interactions 2. Common Goals and Norms  Group members share common goals:  Group members share common norms:

3. Common Identity  Share a sense of belonging that encourages a common identity  Examples:  College—People join sororities/ fraternities  Family—Heritage, Language, Religion

Relationships Within Groups Social relationships are formed as a result of interaction amongst group members. These relationships are put into two categories 1. Instrumental Relationship: -focused on accomplishing goals -relationship will come to an end 2. Expressive Relationships : -Purpose is to enjoy the company of others

Types of Groups Primary Group Secondary Group In-Group Out-Group Reference Group

Primary Groups Based on intimate, face to face association People identify closely to their primary groups Relationships last for a long time Have emotional depth Examples: –Family –Close Friends –Business Partners

Secondary Groups Formal, impersonal groups little social intimacy or mutual understanding Usually larger than primary groups for a shorter duration Social relationships are generally superficial

Reference Group Perform social roles and judge their own behaviors according to these standards  They are not always groups to which you belong  Help shape the opinions of ourselves  Change over time Example: Reference groups may be modeled off of groups that you wish to join—emulate behavior

Reference Groups

In-Groups/Out Groups All groups have boundries-methods of distinguishing between members and nonmembers. When a group has clearly boundaries they think in terms of in groups and out groups. In Group: Is the group you belong to. The Out Group: The group you don’t belong to or identify with.

In/Out Group Characteristics 1. Separate themselves from other groups through the use of symbols, communication, rules. 2. View their group as positive all others as negative. 3. Compete against other groups, conflict common.

Group Sizes Dyad-two members (smallest) –Conflict=end of group Triad -3 easier to make decisions Small Group- Few enough members to have face to face relationship (15) Large Group: 15 or more members. Difficult to make decisions and control.

Group Functions In order to exist groups must fulfill the following functions 1. Define boundaries  who belongs who doesn't. 2. Groups need identification  dress code, uniforms. 3. Method of Communication  Handshakes, language, signals.

Group Functions

Group Requirements 1. Groups need goals and objectives. The goals and objectives can vary form group to group. 2. In order to achieve their goals groups need to assign specific tasks to its members. 3. Groups need to have an acceptable methods of making decisions and assignments.

Group Requirements 4. Groups need to set appropriate standards of behavior. 5. Groups need systems of rewards and punishments. 6. How people behave in a group is generally associated with how much the group means to that person.

Group Leadership Groups must also select leaders. People who make and influence decisions. Some leaders are chosen based on their abilities ( team captain) Some leaders are elected. Some leaders are assigned their positions.

Group Leaders

Types Of Leaders There are two categories of leaders. 1. Instrumental Leaders: Are task oriented. They find specific means that will help the group reach its goals. 2. Expressive Leaders: Emotion based leaders, they lead by keep the group together by keeping the moral up. In order to be successful groups need both types.

Types of Leaders

Groups

Group Brochure Assignment There are many types of groups and organizations in this country with a variety of different goals and membership requirements. Your task is to chose and research one of these groups and identify and explain their membership requirement, structure, goals and objectives. You must also identify and explain any traditions they have, such as initiations, handshakes, dress codes, uniforms and communications etc.. You must also identify where they are located and what type of activities the members engage in. You should also include the groups history and any other relevant information. You must also explain why people would want to join your group or organization.

Format of Brochure Your brochure should be created on a piece of computer paper folded into thirds. Your brochure should be divided up into 6 sections with a cover page and then each subsequent page should contain all of the requirements. Your brochure must include visuals or symbols that not only represent your chosen organization but also would encourage people to become a part of it.