Understanding Social Group Dynamics: Types and Classifications
Understanding Social Groups and Their Dynamics
2.1.: Introduction
When analyzing basic social elements, groups are fundamental. People interact within groups, making the group a key sociological focus, not just individual actions. Sociologists often define society as a collection of smaller groups, not just individuals. Society is structured by interconnected social groups, each with a shared culture.
2.2.: Group Dynamics
The concept of group dynamics, from the Greek “dynamis” (strength, action), acknowledges that groups are formed, develop, and can dissolve. It’s a way to understand social reality through different perspectives, emphasizing learning through community and shared experiences. Group dynamics is a tool to understand how groups form, the factors influencing their operation, and how to improve their effectiveness and cohesion. This can be applied in various areas, including family, work, politics, and education. The objectives of applying group dynamics are to:
- Understand the forces acting within a group.
- Identify factors that favor or hinder group cohesion.
- Maintain a neutral perspective.
- Foster participation among all members.
- Encourage individual responsibility for learning.
- Support the development of each group.
- Help members discover their individual abilities.
- Assess group actions and provide feedback.
Group dynamics is a training tool, allowing for various activities to develop skills and change attitudes. It can be used in education to enhance learning through group experiences.
2.3.3.: Toric Focus on Social Groups
The study of social groups, particularly by Lwin, emphasizes the importance of understanding individual behavior within a social context. Individual actions are not solely based on personal will but are influenced by the dynamics of the social situation, especially within close groups. The study of group dynamics examines how individuals are integrated or excluded, how authority influences the group, and the forces exerted on both individual members and the group. It seeks to clarify the structures of human group dynamics, the group climate, and the types of leaders that allow a group to achieve authenticity in their relationships and creative activities.
2.4.: Classification of Social Groups
Social groups can be classified by various criteria, such as size, objectives, and context. Two common classifications are:
2.4.1.: Formal and Informal Groups
Formal groups, often called organizations, are characterized by:
- Rational planning by the organization’s management.
- Fixed regulations and prescriptions affecting people and situations.
- Goals oriented towards the organization’s objectives.
Informal groups, on the other hand, are characterized by:
- Spontaneous interactions among members within an organization.
- Personal agreements and practices oriented towards the needs and experiences of the group members.
2.4.2.: Membership and Reference Groups
Another way to classify groups is by the level of identification between an individual and the group’s values. This can lead to two situations: membership, where an individual shares the group’s objectives, and identification, where there is a complete alignment. R.K. Merton introduced the concept of a reference group, which is a group with which an individual identifies completely, even if they do not belong to it. This is common among emigrants or those who aspire to belong to a different social group.