Social Group

Definition

A social group is a collection of individuals who share common interests, goals, or identities, and interact with one another in a structured way. These groups can vary in size, purpose, and level of formality. For example, families, clubs, teams, and organizations are all types of social groups. Social groups often have norms (shared expectations for behavior) and roles (expected behaviors based on group membership), which help maintain order and cohesion within the group.

Example

Members of a book club meet monthly to discuss a chosen novel. Each member has read the book, and they share their thoughts, interpretations, and reactions during the discussion. Over time, members develop friendships and support each other's ideas. This book club is an example of a social group because it brings together people with a shared interest in literature, provides a structured setting for interaction, and fosters connections between its members.

Why It Matters

Understanding social groups is essential in sociology because they are the building blocks of society. Social groups shape how individuals behave, think, and feel by establishing norms and expectations. They also provide a sense of belonging and identity, which is crucial for mental health and well-being. By examining how people interact in groups, sociologists gain insights into the dynamics that drive human behavior and social structures.