Sociology: Types of Social Groups
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Questions and Answers

What differentiates a mass from a crowd?

  • Members are organized with a clear purpose
  • Members are physically together
  • Members are geographically dispersed (correct)
  • Members have direct interaction

A public is characterized by a lack of engagement and discussion among its members.

False (B)

Give an example of a social movement.

The Civil Rights Movement

A ______ is a large collectivity where members share a common interest or issue and engage in discussions.

<p>public</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms with their descriptions:

<p>Crowds = Gatherings with immediate interaction Masses = Geographically dispersed collectivity Publics = Dispersed collectivity engaging in discussion Social Movements = Organized efforts to promote social change</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the behavior of a mass?

<p>Unified behavior influenced by media exposure (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Social movements have no clear purpose or leadership.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What fuels the action among crowds?

<p>Collective anger or frustration</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following characteristics is NOT emphasized in Weber's ideal bureaucracy model?

<p>Flexibility (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Iron Law of Oligarchy suggests that organizations become more democratic over time.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one primary advantage of Weber's model of bureaucracy?

<p>Efficiency</p> Signup and view all the answers

Parkinson's Law states that work expands to fill the time available for its completion, leading to _____.

<p>inefficiency</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following concepts to their descriptions:

<p>Iron Law of Oligarchy = Concentration of power into a small elite Parkinson's Law = Work expands to fill the time available Peter Principle = Employees rise to their level of incompetence</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common critique of bureaucratic organizations?

<p>Rigidity (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Weber believed that bureaucracy is the most effective form of organization for achieving goals in large entities.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name one type of organization that typically utilizes bureaucratic structures.

<p>Government agencies</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a negative effect of impersonality in bureaucracies?

<p>Feeling devalued as individuals (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Goal displacement in bureaucracies refers to maintaining the organization's primary goals.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What phenomenon occurs when employees become more concerned with following rules than achieving meaningful outcomes?

<p>goal displacement</p> Signup and view all the answers

Bureaucracies may limit __________ and innovation due to conformity.

<p>initiative</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what scenario might patients feel depersonalized in a healthcare setting?

<p>Being treated as cases rather than individuals (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Bureaucracies encourage employees to take risks and propose new ideas.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can lead to employees feeling undervalued in a bureaucratic organization?

<p>Lack of individual recognition</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary finding of Milgram's obedience experiment?

<p>Most participants obeyed the authority figure despite moral conflict (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a notable conclusion from Milgram's research?

<p>Obedience to legitimate authority can conflict with personal morals. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Participants in Milgram's experiment showed no signs of stress while administering shocks.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of workplace decisions, what is a common reason employees might agree with dominant opinions?

<p>Fear of social repercussions</p> Signup and view all the answers

People tend to act more ethically when following authority figures.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Milgram's experiment demonstrated the influence of _____ authority on individual behavior.

<p>legitimate</p> Signup and view all the answers

What drives individuals to conform, according to Asch's study?

<p>The drive to conform to social norms.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following concepts with their definitions:

<p>Social Media Trends = Participation in popular trends despite personal beliefs Obedience to Authority = Compliance with requests from a legitimate authority Moral Conflict = Internal struggle between personal beliefs and actions Workplace Decisions = Agreeing with dominant opinions to avoid dissent</p> Signup and view all the answers

In military contexts, soldiers may feel a requirement to follow orders, even if they feel __________ about them.

<p>uncomfortable</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the examples to their contexts of obedience:

<p>Corporate Scandals = Employees following questionable directives Military Orders = Soldiers carrying out commands Social Norms = Individuals doubting their own perceptions for acceptance Authority = Obeying commands even if unethical</p> Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of participants in Milgram's experiment administered shocks up to the highest voltage?

<p>65% (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a context where obedience may influence individual actions?

<p>Personal hobbies (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The calming presence of the authority figure contributed to higher obedience rates in Milgram's experiment.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did Milgram's obedience experiment help to understand regarding human behavior during the Holocaust?

<p>Obedience to authority</p> Signup and view all the answers

Milgram's research suggests that obedience is weaker when authority is perceived as legitimate.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What key insight about social behavior is highlighted by both Asch and Milgram's studies?

<p>The influence of peer pressure and authority on individual actions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary role of instrumental leaders?

<p>Accomplishing specific, concrete goals (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Expressive leaders are important for maintaining a healthy and positive group environment.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are two leadership styles mentioned in the content?

<p>Autocratic and Democratic</p> Signup and view all the answers

The __________ research illustrates how individuals may compromise their judgments to avoid being different.

<p>Asch's</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a disadvantage of democratic leadership?

<p>Decision-making can be slower (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the leadership styles with their characteristics:

<p>Autocratic = Can lead to low morale and resentment Democratic = Boosts morale and engagement Laissez-Faire = Fosters creativity and independence</p> Signup and view all the answers

Laissez-Faire leadership guarantees high productivity and clear direction for teams.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential for leaders to adapt their styles based on group needs?

<p>To effectively meet goals and maintain team dynamics.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Mass

A large group of people geographically dispersed, lacking direct interaction, and communicating indirectly, often through media or shared experiences.

Crowd

A large gathering of people in a physical space; easily swayed by shared emotions.

Public

A group of people sharing an interest or issue and engaging in discussion and debate.

Social Movement

An organized group working towards social change, with a clear purpose and leadership.

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Collectivity

A group of people with shared characteristics.

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Riot

A violent crowd action, often fueled by social tensions.

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Indirect Communication

Communication without direct interaction between people.

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Shared Beliefs

Beliefs held in common by a group of people.

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Weber's Bureaucracy

An organizational model emphasizing efficiency, predictability, and rationality.

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Iron Law of Oligarchy

The tendency for power to become concentrated in the hands of a few within organizations.

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Parkinson's Law

Work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion.

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Peter Principle

Employees tend to rise to their level of incompetence.

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Bureaucracy Inefficiency

Problems like rigidity, lack of creativity, and red tape that hinders organizational flexibility and responsiveness.

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Bureaucratic Problems

Issues stemming from bureaucratic characteristics, like the Iron Law of Oligarchy, Parkinson's Law, and the Peter Principle.

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Bureaucratic Objective

Systematically achieve organizational goals through structured systems.

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Bureaucracy Examples

Government agencies, educational institutions, hospitals, and large corporations.

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Instrumental Leader

A leader focused on achieving specific goals and tasks.

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Expressive Leader

A leader focused on maintaining positive relationships and a healthy group environment.

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Autocratic Leadership

Leadership style where the leader makes all decisions without input from others.

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Democratic Leadership

Leadership style where the leader involves group members in decision-making.

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Laissez-faire Leadership

Leadership style where the leader gives the group a lot of freedom and independence in decision-making.

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Group Conformity

The tendency of individuals to adjust their opinions and behaviors to match the group.

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Asch's Research

Research showing how peer pressure can influence individual judgment.

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Milgram's Research

Research exploring obedience to authority figures.

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Conformity

Adjusting one's behavior or beliefs to match those of a group, often due to pressure or a desire to fit in.

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Social Repercussions

The negative consequences or outcomes that can result from going against a group's norms or expectations.

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Milgram's Obedience Experiment

A famous study that investigated the extent to which individuals obey authority figures, even when those orders conflict with their morals.

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Authority Figure

A person or group perceived to have power or the right to give commands or enforce rules.

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Legitimate Authority

Authority that is recognized as valid and justified by the individual, often due to factors like position, expertise, or social status.

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Moral Conflict

A struggle within a person when they are faced with a decision that conflicts with their values and beliefs.

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High Obedience Rates

A significant proportion of participants following the instructions of an authority figure, even when those instructions were morally questionable.

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Staged

Something that is planned or set up for a specific purpose, especially in an experiment.

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Milgram's Experiment

A famous study where participants were asked to administer electric shocks to a learner, demonstrating the power of authority in influencing obedience.

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Obedience to Authority

The tendency for individuals to follow orders or directions given by figures perceived as having authority, even if those orders conflict with their personal beliefs.

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Asch's Experiment

A study where participants were asked to identify the lengths of lines, showing how conformity pressure can lead people to doubt their own perceptions.

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Conformity to Social Norms

The tendency for individuals to adjust their behavior, beliefs, and attitudes to align with the perceived norms of a group.

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How do Authority and Social Norms Influence Us?

Both Asch's and Milgram's studies highlight how social pressures, like conformity and obedience, can impact our actions.

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Real-World Applications of Conformity & Obedience

These principles explain everyday behaviors across various settings, including workplaces, schools, military service, and even social movements.

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Ethical Implications

These studies raise ethical concerns about the potential for blind obedience to lead to harmful consequences.

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Understanding Human Behavior

These experiments provide crucial insights into human behavior, demonstrating how social influences can shape our decisions, sometimes against our own morals.

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Impersonality

A characteristic of bureaucracies where rules and procedures are applied uniformly to everyone, regardless of individual circumstances. This promotes fairness but can lead to a lack of personal connection and empathy.

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Dehumanization

When individuals within a bureaucratic system feel like they are treated as objects or numbers, rather than unique people. This can result from impersonality, where rules take precedence over individual needs or experiences.

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Goal Displacement

A situation where the focus of a bureaucracy shifts away from its original goals and towards maintaining rules, procedures, or the bureaucracy itself. This can lead to a focus on form over substance.

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Bureaucratic Inertia

The tendency of bureaucracies to resist change and innovation due to its rigid structures and established procedures. This can discourage new ideas and risk-taking.

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Limited Initiative

A consequence of bureaucratic inertia, limiting employee creativity and motivation. Fear of violating policies or disrupting routine often prevents employees from taking initiative.

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Employee Devaluation

When employees in a bureaucratic system feel undervalued and their contributions unrecognized as individuals. This can result from an emphasis on following rules and procedures over recognizing individual efforts.

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Focus on Rules

A key characteristic of bureaucracies where following rules and procedures becomes the primary focus, even at the expense of achieving real goals.

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Stifled Innovation

When bureaucratic structures and rigid procedures discourage creativity and innovation, resulting in a lack of new ideas and forward progress.

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Study Notes

Social Groups

  • Social groups are collections of individuals who interact, share similarities, and have a sense of unity or identity. These groups have shared norms, values and goals and regularly interact.

Types of Social Groups

  • Dyad: The smallest possible group, consisting of two people.
  • Triad: A group of three people.
  • Aggregates: Collections of people who share a physical space but don't see themselves as belonging together. Examples include people waiting in line or on public transportation.
  • Social Categories: Collections of people with similar characteristics (e.g., age, gender, occupation), but they may not interact directly.
  • Collectivities: Clusters of people interacting in a temporary manner for a common purpose. Examples include crowds, mobs, or riots.
  • Publics: Dispersed groups sharing common interests and engaging in discussion and debate.
  • Social Movements: More organized groups focused on social change, typically evolving from collectivities with a sustained purpose, leadership, and organized efforts.

Types of Collectivities

  • Crowds: Temporary groups sharing a common location and a purpose.
  • Mobs and Riots: Crowds with high emotional intensity, sometimes resulting in violence or lawlessness.
  • Masses: Large collectives with geographically dispersed members, often interacting indirectly through media.

Social Categories vs. Categories

  • Category: A broad grouping of individuals based on shared characteristics. These do not imply any social connection among members (e.g., people over 6 feet tall).
  • Social Category: A category with more social significance, based on a shared social characteristic or status within society. Members may experience similar societal roles, expectations (e.g., "teenagers").

Types of Groups (By Social Ties and Interaction)

  • Primary Groups: Small, close-knit groups with enduring, personal relationships (e.g., family, close friends).
  • Secondary Groups: Large, formal, impersonal groups whose members pursue a shared goal (e.g., a sociology class, a political party).

Types of Groups (By Self-Identification)

  • In-group: A group an individual feels loyalty and belonging toward, sharing common values and interests.
  • Out-group: A group an individual does not feel belonging to and may feel disdain or hostility toward.
  • Reference Groups: Groups which people use as standards for evaluating themselves, their situations, and behavior (but to which they do not necessarily belong).

Types of Formal Organizations

  • Normative (or Voluntary): Formed by people sharing common values or interests, aimed at promoting social or cultural causes.
  • Coercive: People are compelled to join, often against their will (e.g., prisons).
  • Utilitarian: Established to provide specific goods, services, or financial gain (e.g., businesses, corporations).

Power in Groups

  • Coercive Power: Based on the ability to enforce compliance through threats or punishment.
  • Utilitarian Power: Based on material rewards and incentives.
  • Normative Power: Based on shared values, ideals, and commitment to organizational goals.

Group Involvement

  • There are three types of involvement from lower participants (members, employees, etc.):
  • Alienative Involvement: When members feel alienated, resentful, or hostile toward the organization.
  • Calculative Involvement: Transactional and rational involvement, based on perceived costs and benefits.
  • Moral Involvement: Deep commitment and identification with the organization's mission.

Group Dynamics

  • Group dynamics encompass the processes and interactions among group members. Understanding these processes helps understand how groups achieve their goals.

Group Leadership

  • Instrumental Leaders: Focused on achieving specific goals and task-oriented objectives.
  • Expressive Leaders: Focused on the emotional and relational needs of group members.

Group Conformity

  • Conformity, as demonstrated in the Asch and Milgram experiments, highlights the powerful influence of peer pressure and authority on individual judgment.

Bureaucracy

  • Bureaucracy is a system of administration characterized by strict hierarchy, division of labor, formal rules and procedures, impersonality, and employment based on qualifications.

Problems with Bureaucracy

  • Rigidity and Lack of Flexibility: Strict rules make adaptation to changes difficult.
  • Red Tape and Inefficiency: Excessive procedures and paperwork slow down decision-making.
  • Impersonality and Dehumanization: Treating individuals as "cases" rather than unique individuals.
  • Goal Displacement: Prioritizing procedures and rules over goals.
  • Limited Initiative and Innovation: Discouraging deviation from established procedures.
  • Employee Alienation and Low Morale: Feeling disconnected from the organization due to strict rules and impersonal interactions.
  • Waste and Duplication of Efforts: Overlapping responsibilities and unnecessary duplication of work.

Iron Law of Oligarchy:

  • The tendency of organizations to become controlled by a small group of leaders.

Parkinson's Law:

  • Work expands to fill the time available.

Peter Principle:

  • Employees are promoted until they reach their level of incompetence.

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Social Groups PDF

Description

Explore the various types of social groups in this quiz, including dyads, triads, and collectivities. Understand the differences between aggregates, social categories, and more. Test your knowledge on how these groups interact and their characteristics.

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