Social Influence and Group Processes

Formal groups and informal groups differ in how they are formed and organised. In formal groups, the functions of the group are stated explicitly and formally. Their formation is based on specific rules or laws, and members have definite roles and a set of norms. A university is an example of a formal group.

In informal groups, the formation is not based on rules or laws, and there is a close relationship among members. Their roles are not formally fixed.

Ingroups and outgroups are based on membership and comparison. An ingroup is one's own group, while an outgroup is another group. We use the word “we” for the ingroup and “they” for the outgroup. Ingroup members are usually seen as similar, viewed favourably, and thought to have desirable traits. Outgroup members are often viewed less favourably and seen as different.

So, formal/informal groups are distinguished by structure and rules, whereas ingroup/outgroup are distinguished by membership and social comparison.

Yes, a person can be a member of many groups such as family, class, friends, sports team, club, or community. According to the chapter, people join groups because they satisfy several needs. The main motivations are:

- Security: groups reduce insecurity and provide comfort and protection.
- Status: membership in an important group gives recognition and a sense of power.
- Self-esteem: being part of a prestigious group improves self-worth and social identity.
- Satisfaction of psychological and social needs: groups give belongingness, attention, love, and support.
- Goal achievement: some goals cannot be achieved alone, so people join groups to accomplish them.
- Knowledge and information: groups provide information and broaden our understanding.

So, if I were to answer personally, I would say I joined a group because it gave me belongingness, support, and a chance to achieve a common goal.

Tuckman's stage model helps us understand that groups do not form at once; they develop through stages over time. The chapter gives five stages:

1. Forming: members first meet; there is uncertainty, excitement, and apprehension.
2. Storming: intragroup conflict appears about goals, control, and tasks.
3. Norming: members develop group norms and a positive group identity.
4. Performing: the group structure is accepted and members work towards achieving the goal.
5. Adjourning: for some groups, the group is disbanded after the task is over.

This model helps us understand that group formation is a process, not a single event. It also shows how a group changes from uncertainty to conflict, then to cooperation, productive work, and sometimes ending. The chapter also notes that groups may not always move neatly in one sequence; some stages may overlap, repeat, or be skipped.