Group (psychology)

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Wolves rely on their strength in numbers to protect each other as well as bring down prey.

In social psychology, a group can be defined as two or more humans who interact with one another, accept expectations and obligations as members of the group, and share a common identity. By this definition, society can be viewed as a large group, though most social groups are considerably smaller.

A true group exhibits some degree of social cohesion and is more than a simple collection or aggregate of individuals, such as people waiting at a bus stop. Characteristics shared by members of a group may include interests, values, ethnic or social background, and/or kinship ties. According to Hare, the defining characteristic of a group is social interaction.[1]

## References

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1. ↑ Hare, A. P. (1962). Handbook of small group research. New York: Macmillan.

## See also

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* Group (sociology) (Wikipedia)
* Groups and leadership (Lecture)

### Topics

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* Group polarisation
* Prisoners' dilemma (Wikipedia)
* Social loafing
* Social facilitation