1. Groups, Organizations, and Social Institutions
● Chapter Overview: This module covers the different levels of social
groups, from small, interpersonal groups to large, formal organizations,
and explains how social life is understood through these affiliations.
● Learning Objectives:
○ Compare and illustrate the different types of social groups,
explain why people conform to group pressure, and discuss the
impact of social networks.
○ Describe and illustrate three types of formal organizations,
summarize the strengths and shortcomings of bureaucracies,
and explain how informal groups affect organizations.
○ Compare the theoretical explanations of social groups and
organizations.
○ Explain why social institutions are important and how they’re
interconnected.
2. Social Groups: Types and Characteristics
Type
Primary Group Secondary Group
Definition
Small group with face-to- Large, usually formal,
face interaction over an impersonal, temporary group
extended period. that pursues a specific goal.
Relations
hips Intimate, warm, informal, Remote, cool, formal, and
and long-term. Valued for usually short-term. Goal-
their own sake (expressive). oriented (instrumental).
Conformit
y Members are relatively free Expected to adhere to strict
to stray from norms. rules and regulations.
Examples
Family, close friends, self- College classes, professional
help groups. associations.
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● Chapter Overview: This module covers the different levels of social
groups, from small, interpersonal groups to large, formal organizations,
and explains how social life is understood through these affiliations.
● Learning Objectives:
○ Compare and illustrate the different types of social groups,
explain why people conform to group pressure, and discuss the
impact of social networks.
○ Describe and illustrate three types of formal organizations,
summarize the strengths and shortcomings of bureaucracies,
and explain how informal groups affect organizations.
○ Compare the theoretical explanations of social groups and
organizations.
○ Explain why social institutions are important and how they’re
interconnected.
2. Social Groups: Types and Characteristics
Type
Primary Group Secondary Group
Definition
Small group with face-to- Large, usually formal,
face interaction over an impersonal, temporary group
extended period. that pursues a specific goal.
Relations
hips Intimate, warm, informal, Remote, cool, formal, and
and long-term. Valued for usually short-term. Goal-
their own sake (expressive). oriented (instrumental).
Conformit
y Members are relatively free Expected to adhere to strict
to stray from norms. rules and regulations.
Examples
Family, close friends, self- College classes, professional
help groups. associations.
Export to Sheets
