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.
The five friends went together to the principal and were given extra laboratory hours. Which reason for joining groups does this part of the passage illustrate?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Goal achievement
Option (1) Status — Incorrect. Status means feeling recognised and powerful because others see the group as important. The juniors seeking guidance show this; the laboratory hours are a result the group won.
Option (2) Security — Incorrect. Security means a group reduces the insecurity a person feels alone and gives comfort and protection. The visit to the principal is not about feeling safe.
Option (3) Goal achievement — Correct. Going together, the five got what they wanted. This is goal achievement: groups help reach goals that cannot be attained individually, because there is power in the majority.
Option (4) Self-esteem — Incorrect. Self-esteem means a prestigious group gives self-worth and a positive social identity. The visit is about getting something done.
NCERT (2026-27): “Why Do People Join Groups? … “• Security : When we are alone, we feel insecure. Groups reduce this insecurity. Being with people gives a sense of comfort, and protection. As a result, people feel stronger, and are less vulnerable to threats.” “• Status : When we are members of a group that is perceived to be important by others, we feel recognised and experience a sense of power. Suppose your school wins in an inter - institutional debate competition, you feel proud and think that you are better than others.” “• Self-esteem : Groups provide feelings of self-worth and establish a positive social identity. Being a member of prestigious groups enhances one’s self-concept.” “• Satisfaction of one’s psychological and social needs : Groups satisfy one’s social and psychological needs such as sense of belongingness, giving and receiving attention, love, and power through a group.” “• Goal achievement : Groups help in achieving such goals which cannot be attained individually. There is power in the majority.” |