1. Social Structure
Ch. 4

2. Groups Within Society What is a Group? 4 Major Features
It MUST consist of two or more people
There MUST be interaction among the members
Members MUST have shared expectations
Members MUST possess some sense of common identity

3. Group Size- Dyad TWO members
Each with direct control over the groups existence If one leaves the groups ends.
Decision making may be difficult especially if there is a failure to agree.

4. Triad THREE members Group has a life of its own independent of members
No one person can disband the group
Decision making is easier because of tendency to majority

5. Small Group
Must have few enough members that all can interact face-to-face
Maximum is 15
Sociology has found that at greater than 15 members there is a tendency to sort into smaller groups

6. Formal Groups
Structure, goals and activities are clearly defined.
Ex. Student government

7. Informal Group
No official structure or established rules of conduct
Ex. Your circle of friends

8. Types of Groups Primary Groups (Ex. Family)
Secondary Groups (Ex. Impersonal, temporary, a classroom)
Reference Groups (any group with whom individuals identify)
Methods of distinguishing members/non-members
In-groups (the group a person belongs to and identifies with)
Out-groups (any group that a person does not belong to or identify with)
E-communities

9. Primary Groups Allow a greater level of non-conformity
People tend to show a greater level of commitment to primary group norms
High value is placed on primary group membership
Membership usually lasts longer than secondary groups

10. Group Functions
Define boundaries (Who is a member & who is not)
Must select leaders
Must set goals, assign tasks and make decisions
Must control members behavior through effective sanctions