Essay About Social Psychology Groups Definition Of A Group And Group Members

Social Psychology Notes
Chapter 8- Social Psychology Groups Definition of a group:2 or more people who interact with each other and influence each other for more than a short period of time. Group members don’t have to like each other or be friends. 3 key reasons why people choose to join groups:The need to ‘belong’, or to give & receive attention & affection To obtain knowledge, skills & goals To develop a social identity based on the group Additional reasons why people join groups:Humans are overwhelmingly social & get a great deal out of being part of a group Being a part of a group defines you as an individual & group memberGroup roles enable you to build self-concept & self-esteem 3 aspects of group membership- social norms, social roles & social status:Social norms Standards that govern what is expected in society & social situations Different groups have different behavioural standards Breaking the ‘rules’ can lead to punishment by the group or being thrown out of the groupRules may either be written or simply understood but not written Social roles Activities taken on by individuals for the benefit of the groupEach role has a set of social norms or rules that set the expected standard of behaviour for the person in the positionDifferent roles are associated with different social status levels  Social status Refers to the level of prestige or importance of a person within a group Members in high status roles receive respect or are admired by other group members The leader (highest social status) usually has the greatest power & influence over other group members  Characteristics of groups:‘Members’ must have extended interaction with one anotherStability & endurance of group Perception that the group is composed of all its member The sharing of common goals & the undertaking of similar tasks Members recognise and value these characteristics When do people feel they are a part of a group? (Insko & colleagues, 1998)