Chapter 6.2 Types of groups

Reference Groups A reference group is a group people use to form norms, values, behaviors and beliefs Examples: Families Friends Teammates Actors

Reference Groups We do not need to belong to a particular group to use it as a reference group Example: professional athletes All that needs to be done is to evaluate yourself by a groups standards Reference groups may be positive or negative Examples: gangs, KKK

In-groups & Out-groups group demanding extreme loyalty exclude others competes with out group Out-group group antagonized by in-group

In-groups & Out-groups Boundaries must be formed must establish “us vs. them” Boundaries can be symbols or places Boundaries are taught to new members Boundaries are maintained through intense loyalty and commitment even if it involved conflict with other groups

Social Networks Social network = all a person’s social relationships Examples: Friends Pen-pals Teachers Internet chat buddies Boss

Social Networks Social networks are not groups Ties can be strong or weak Social networks include primary and secondary relationships Functions: sense of belonging provide support and advice make connections