Identify, which one of the following is NOT a characteristic of a group:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Mutual prejudice among members
Option (1) Collection of individuals who have common motives and goals — A characteristic of a group (Incorrect). Groups function either working towards a given goal or away from certain threats facing the group.
Option (2) Mutual prejudice among members — Not a characteristic of a group (Correct). Prejudices are attitudes, usually negative, towards a particular group, mostly another group. Members of a group are bound by liking and mutual attraction (cohesiveness); prejudice among the members themselves would break the group rather than define it.
Option (3) Interacting and interdependent individuals — A characteristic of a group (Incorrect). A group is a collection of individuals who are interdependent, so that what one does has consequences for others, and who interact directly or indirectly.
Option (4) Interactions of members are structured by a set of goals and norms — A characteristic of a group (Incorrect). The members’ interactions are structured by a set of roles and norms, and the group works towards common goals; norms tell members how they ought to behave in the group.
NCERT (2025-26): “Nature and Formation of Groups … Groups have the following salient characteristics :
“Prejudice and Discrimination … Prejudices are examples of attitudes towards a particular group. They are usually negative, and in many cases, may be based on stereotypes (the cognitive component) about the specific group.…” |