Reference groups Flashcards
why are reference groups important?
because they influence consumer decisions through desire to be accepted by others
def reference group
an actual or imaginary individual or group conceived of having significant relevance upon an individual’s evaluations, aspirations, or behaviour
def group
2/more individuals who share a set of norms/beliefs ++ their behaviours are interdependent
what are the 7 parts of the social environment?
- culture
- subculture
- social class
- organisations
- reference groups
- family
- situation
when are certain reference groups important?
when certain individuals have social power = the capacity to alter the actions of others
define 6 types of social power
- referent power
- information power
- legitimate power
- expert power
- reward power
- coercive power
state 4 ways in which reference groups influence individuals
- socialisation
- self-concept
- social comparison
- conformity
define socialisation as a way of influencing
individual gets to know what kind of behaviours will likely result in stability for the group and for them
define self-concept as a way of influencing
individuals interact with group members and protect or modify their self-concept through that
define social comparison as a way of influencing
individuals evaluate themselves by comparing to others
define conformity as a way of influencing
real or percieved group pressures make an individual change their beliefs or actions
which groups have a potential to influence an individual? (4)
- those they’re an active participant in
- those they belong to
- those they want to belong to
- those they avoid
what do groups provide an individual with? (3)
information
rewards
identity
how can groups influence in an individual? (3)
purchases
consumption
communication
state 5 types of reference groups
- formal vs informal
- primary vs secondary
- with membership
- aspirational
- avoidance (dissociative)
what is the difference between formal and informal groups?
formal have clearly defined objectives and structure, while informal dont
what is the difference between primary and secondary groups?
primary invlove direct and face to face interactions
secondary have indirect interactions
state examples for formal, informal, primary, and secondary groups
F: religious community
I: group of students in a dorm
P: family
S: professional association
what is the main characteristic of a group with membership?
individuals formally become members
def aspirational group
individuals aspire to join / emulate (imitate) behavioural patterns
e.g. fan base