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With
respect to the question: "Why do groups form?", there are a number of general
tendencies. |
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1. |
The
similarity-attraction effect: we like people who are similar to us in some way |
| . |
2. |
The
complementarity-of-needs hypothesis: we like people who possess qualities that
fulfill our own needs |
| . |
3. |
The
proximity-attraction effect: we like people who are close by |
| . |
4. |
Exposure:
we like people whom we have been exposed to repeatedly |
| . |
5. |
Reciprocity:
we like people who like us |
| . |
6. |
Basking
in reflected glory: we seek to associate with successful, prestigious groups |
| . |
Furthermore, we also tend to avoid individuals who possess objectionable
characteristics. |
| . |
|
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ANOTHER PERSPECTIVE ON REASONS PEOPLE HAVE FOR JOINING GROUPS
There a numerous reasons for joining
groups. Some of the more common reasons are listed below:
|
| . |
1. |
Affiliation
Humans are by nature gregarious.
Groups provide a natural way for people to gather in order to satisfy their social
needs.
|
| . |
2. |
Goal
achievement
Problems and tasks that require the
utilization of knowledge tend to give groups an advantage over individuals. There is more
information in a group than in any one of its members, and groups tend to provide a
greater number of approaches to solving any particular problem.
|
| . |
3. |
Power
Individuals gain power in their
relationship with their employers by forming unions. Consumer rights groups fighting class
action suits against large companies, confer power on the members that these members would
not have as individuals.
|
| . |
4. |
Status
In some inner-city neighborhoods,
membership in a particular youth gang may confer status (perceived) on members of that
gang. Similarly, membership in some service clubs or a political body may be seen to
confer status on members
|
| . |
5. |
Self-esteem
As suggested by Maslow, people have a
basic desire for self-esteem. Group membership may nurture self-esteem. If one
belongs to a successful group, the self-esteem of all members may be boosted. Membership
in an exclusive group -- for example the local MENSA chapter -- may also raise an
individual's self-esteem.
|
| . |
6. |
Security
Sometimes individuals need protection
from other groups or more powerful individuals -- "there is safety in numbers".
These individuals may seek security in group membership. Neighbors may form a "Block
Watch" group to ensure the security and protection of their neighborhood.
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