PsychologySocial Influence and Group Processes

Which of the following pairs of type of group and its example is corr…

Which of the following pairs of type of group and its example is correctly matched?

Answer & explanation

Correct answer: option 2

The correct answer is Option (2) → Formal group - a university

Option (1) Primary group - membership of a political party — Incorrect. A political party is joined by choice. So it is a secondary group.

Option (2) Formal group - a university — Correct. A formal group is formed on specific rules or laws, and its members have definite roles. A university runs this way, so it is a formal group.

Option (3) Informal group - an office organisation — Incorrect. An office organisation states its functions and roles explicitly. That makes it a formal group.

Option (4) Secondary group - caste — Incorrect. Caste is a pre-existing formation given to a person at birth. It is a primary group.

NCERT (2026-27): “Formal and Informal Groups
These groups differ in the degree to which the functions of the group are stated explicitly and formally. The functions of a formal group are explicitly stated as in the case of an office organisation. The roles to be performed by group members are stated in an explicit manner. The formal and informal groups differ on the basis of structure. The formation of formal groups is based on some specific rules or laws and members have definite roles. There are a set of norms which help in establishing order. A university is an example of a formal group. …”