1. Chapter 6.2
Types of groups

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

3. 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

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

5. 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

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

7. 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