Groups & Institutions

• Group

  A number of people who interact frequently, share common interests, work towards a common goal or objective, and have common expectations of behavior that conform to established guidelines
• Characteristics of a group

  • Frequent interaction
  • Shared common interests
  • Shared feeling of unity
  • Work towards common goal/objective
  • Common expectations of behavior that conform to established guidelines
• Primary group

  Usually categorized by small size and frequent interaction. Members see each other relatively often and are familiar with each other.
• Secondary group

  Usually larger than a primary group, with less frequent interaction and less intimacy.
• Types of groups

  • Primary group
  • Secondary group
  • Formal group
  • Informal group
  • Peer group
  • Interest group
  • Pressure group
  • Volunteer group
  • Involuntary group
• Formal group

  Has a clear structure, defined leader, assigned roles and responsibilities, and shared common goals. Has rules, regulations, and sanctions.
• Informal group

  No clear structure, no rules or regulations and no requirements for membership
• Peer group

  Made up of persons of similar age who share similar social status, experiences, and interests.
• Volunteer group

  A group that you join of your own free will, without being paid.
• Involuntary group

  A group that you become a member of against your own free will.
• Institution (1)

  An established custom or pattern of behavior in a society, sometimes called a norm.
• Institution (2)


  A formal, specialized organization.
• Characteristics of institutions (2)

  • Hierarchical structure with clear lines of authority
  • Individuals have specific roles and status
  • Serves a specific function in society
  • Has written rules and guidelines
  • Endures over time
  • Has distinct symbols and rituals
• Types of institutions

  • Educational institutions
  • Economic institutions
  • Recreational institutions
  • Religious institutions
  • Political institutions
• Educational institutions

  Teach basic skills, knowledge and skills for specific jobs, develop critical thinking, and address spiritual, moral, educational, and physical development.
• Educational institutions

  • Schools, colleges, universities
• Economic institutions

  Produce and manage resources and the money used as a medium of exchange.
• Economic institutions

  • Banks, building societies, credit unions
• Recreational institutions

  Provide opportunities for fun, relaxation, amusement, and physical fitness.
• Religious institutions

  Allow individuals to practice their faith and provide a sense of fellowship.
• Religious institutions

  • Churches, synagogues, temples, mosques
• Political institutions

  Responsible for ensuring the society can grow, prosper, and be safe and secure by regulating competing and sometimes conflicting interests.
• Political institutions

  • Political parties, trade unions attached to political parties