Farhan, a Class 12 student in Lucknow, came to know four boys of his colony because they met at the same playground every evening. Before the entrance test season the five formed a study circle. Farhan had missed classes during an illness; the others explained the exam pattern to him and lent him their notes. On tense nights before the test, sitting with them calmed him. When all five cleared the school mock test, juniors began coming to them for guidance and Farhan felt proud. Later the five went together to the principal and were given extra laboratory hours.
Farhan first came to know the four boys because they met at the same playground every evening. Identify the condition that made this first contact possible.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Proximity
Option (1) Similarity — Incorrect. Similarity works after people have been exposed to each other for some time: they notice they are alike and start liking each other.
Option (2) Self-esteem — Incorrect. Self-esteem is also a reason for joining: a prestigious group raises self-worth.
Option (3) Security — Incorrect. Security is a reason for joining a group: groups reduce the insecurity felt when alone.
Option (4) Proximity — Correct. Meeting at the same playground every evening is proximity. Repeated interactions with the same people give a chance to know them, their interests and attitudes; this contact starts group formation.
NCERT (2026-27): “Group Formation “• Proximity : Just think about your group of friends. Would you have been friends if you were not living in the same colony, or going to the same school, or may be playing in the same playground? Probably your answer would be ‘No’. Repeated interactions with the same set of individuals give us a chance to know them, and their interests and attitudes. Common interests, attitudes, and background are important determinants of your liking for your group members.” |