Primary groups are distinguished by the closest, most basic, and intimate forms of association. Examples of primary groups include family and friends. These people can have long-lasting effects on the development of our social selves. Secondary groups are characterized by large, impersonal forms of association. Examples of secondary groups include schools and workplace organizations. We usually play a specific role in a secondary group instead of "being ourselves."

Primary and Secondary Groups

Reference groups are the groups of people against whom we wish to be judged. They set a standard by which we judge our own attitudes and actions. Family, friends, and coworkers are significant reference groups. Those in the media, such as celebrities, can also be a reference group. 

Reference Groups

- In-groups and Out-groups
- Primary and Secondary Groups
- Reference Groups

Saint Louis University

Alma College

A social group is defined as a category of people who interact with each other and share a sense of identity. Furthermore, a collection of people who have a shared set of social expectations and values are said to belong in the same social group. There is typically some awareness of social boundaries within social groups. 

Social Group

Giddens, A., Duneier, M., Apellbaum, R.P., Carr, D. (2017). Essentials of Sociology (6th ed., pp. 130-132). New York: W. W. Norton & Company, Inc.

Learn Before

Related

Learn After