Types of Groups

All of us are simultaneously members of various types

of groups. We are members of the family, members of

friendship groups, members of work organisations and

members of fan club or a religious group. Sociologists

have attempted to classify/differentiate the various

types of groups as follows:

Voluntary and Involuntary Groups

Voluntary groups are those we join through our own

choice and effort. We may join a political party or a

particular occupation. In contrast involuntary groups

are those that we are forced to join or those that we

are automatically members of without choice. For

example, everyone is without a choice, automatically a

member of sex, age and racial groups.

Open and Closed Groups

An open group is one in which virtually anyone can

become a member. For instance, all can join the Hrithik

Roshan fan club. A closed group, however, is much more

difficult to join. Some exclusive clubs restrict

membership so that all cannot join. Only a few elites

manage to get memberships in such clubs. Similarly

the mafia (underworld) is a closed group.

Vertical and Horizontal Groups

A vertical group consists of members from all walks of

life, while a horizontal group consists predominantly of

members from one social class. Occupational groups –

of doctors or electricians for instance – are composed

largely of members from the same social class. On the

other hand religious groups may have members from

all classes.

Primary and Secondary Groups

Primary group is one where members develop close,

personal, intimate and enduring relationships. Family,

neighbours and work associates are examples of such

groups. Members know one another well, greatly

influence each other and feel closely related. On the

other hand, in secondary groups individuals act towards

one another in rather impersonal, superficial and

utilitarian ways.

Natural and Formed Groups

Natural groups consist of members who come together

in a spontaneous fashion on the basis of naturally

occurring events, interpersonal attraction or the

mutually perceived needs of members. Family, peer

groups and street gangs are examples of natural groups.

On the other hand formed group consists of members

who come together through some outside influence or

intervention. These are groups that are formed for a

particular purpose. Therapy groups, encounter groups,

committees and teams are examples of formed groups.

The type of group that we discussed last – formed group

– is of great interest to group work as the groups that

we come across in group work predominantly belong to

this type of groups.