Sociology discussion

1. What Is a Social Group? Define a social group from a sociological perspective. In your response, explain how groups differ from categories or crowds, and briefly address shared identity, norms, roles/status, and in-group/out-group boundaries. 2. Primary & Secondary Groups (Application + Analysis) Define primary and secondary groups using sociological concepts. Then: Identify one primary group and one secondary group from your own life. Compare and contrast them in terms of emotional depth, structure, expectations, loyalty, and influence. Explain what factors contributed to cohesion or belonging in these groups. 3. Social Networks & Influence Define social networks, including strong ties, weak ties, and social capital. How have your networks influenced your beliefs, opportunities, or life choices? Analyze whether strong or weak ties have played a greater role in shaping your access to information or mobility. 4. Conformity, Authority & Group Decision-Making Using the Asch Conformity Experiment and the Stanford Prison Experiment: What do these studies reveal about conformity, authority, and group pressure? What conditions increase the likelihood of conformity? Briefly explain groupthink and its potential consequences. Would you have responded similarly or differently? Why? 5. The Role and Power of Groups in Society From a sociological perspective, explain the broader functions of groups in society. How do groups: Create belonging and identity? Regulate behavior? Reinforce or challenge dominant norms and ideologies? Distribute power and status? Provide at least one concrete example.