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:

1. The need to ‘belong’, or to give & receive attention & affection
2. To obtain knowledge, skills & goals
3. 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 member
• Group roles enable you to build self-concept & self-esteem

3 aspects of group membership- social norms, social roles & social status:

Characteristics of groups:

• ‘Members’ must have extended interaction with one another
• Stability & 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)

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