12 th Grade Sociology

I.) What exactly is a Group? Group: a collection of individuals who have regular contact and frequent interaction, mutual influence, common feeling of camaraderie, and who work together to achieve a common set of goals.

A Group is defined by…….. Boundaries : features or characteristics which clearly define members of a group and distinguish those who not

II.) A “Group” is not Social Category: people who share a social characteristic Social Aggregate: people who are temporarily in the same place at the same time

III.) A “Group” is Primary Group: people who know each other well, are emotionally close, and seek one another's company * Based on Primary Relationships (intimate, caring, personal, fulfilling) How to develop? small in size face to face contact continual contact social environment Function? emotional support socialization conformity

Secondary Group: people who share only part of their lives and are together to accomplish a task or goal * Based on Secondary Relationships (impersonal, limited emotion) How to develop? social environment segment of person’s life Function? to accomplish a goal to complete a task

Reference Group: a group used for self-evaluation by which one forms attitudes, beliefs, norms. In Groups Exclusive group that demands intense loyalty Out Groups Opposed by in- group for competition and opposition Examples: Cliques, Teams, Countries, Races, Gangs, Neighborhoods

IV.) Networks Social Network: all of a person’s social relationships Not a “group” itself Includes both “primary” & “secondary” groups ?????

Four things that happen through social networks: 1. Diffusion: networks spread ideas and influence - example: rumors 2. Exchanges: nobody is self-sufficent; networks allow people to exchange with others to obtain things they need and want - example: resources 3. Social Support: networks can provide assistance and information in times of need - example: moving to a new town 4. Exclusion: becoming connected to a network can open doors, whereas exclusion can bring about inequalities - example: country clubs/social clubs

Now Apply It To Yourself:.....