Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Primary group
Option (1) Formal groups — Incorrect. In a formal group the functions and roles are explicitly stated, as in an office organisation or a university, and the group is formed on specific rules or laws. Such a group is set up, not something one is born into.
Option (2) Outgroup — Incorrect. ‘Ingroup’ refers to one’s own group and ‘outgroup’ to another group, of which one is not a member; for its members we say ‘they’. A group one is born into is one’s own group, not an outgroup.
Option (3) Primary group — Correct. Primary groups are pre-existing formations which are usually given to the individual. Family, caste and religion are primary groups: a person is born into them, has face-to-face interaction and close emotional bonds in them, and they shape her/his values early in life.
Option (4) Secondary group — Incorrect. Secondary groups are those which the individual joins by choice, such as a political party. They are the opposite of groups one is born into.
NCERT (2025-26): “Primary and Secondary Groups … A major difference between primary and secondary groups is that primary groups are pre-existing formations which are usually given to the individual whereas secondary groups are those which the individual joins by choice. Thus, family, caste, and religion are primary groups whereas membership of a political party is an example of a secondary group.…” “Formal and Informal Groups … The functions of a formal group are explicitly stated as in the case of an office organisation.…” “Ingroup and Outgroup … The term ‘ingroup’ refers to one’s own group, and ‘outgroup’ refers to another group. For ingroup members, we use the word ‘we’ while for outgroup members, the word ‘they’ is used.…” |