SociologyLesson 2 of 3 in the course Groups and Organization

Group Structure, Leadership, and Social Influence

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

Groups differ not only in how many people belong to them, but also in how members relate to one another. This lesson introduces small groups, dyads, triads, and the trade-offs that come with larger group size.

A small group is generally small enough for its members to know one another and participate in interaction together. A nuclear family or a close circle of friends can be examples.

All flashcards

Small group
A group whose members can generally know one another and interact directly.
Dyad
A two-person group that ceases to exist if either member withdraws.
Triad
A three-person group that can survive one member's withdrawal and may form coalitions.
Instrumental leadership
Leadership focused on completing tasks and achieving goals.
Diffusion of responsibility
A tendency for people to feel less personally responsible when others are present.

Quiz questions

  1. What happens to a dyad when either member withdraws?Answer: The group ceases to exist.
  2. Which relationship pattern can occur in a triad but not a dyad?Answer: Two members can form a majority or align against the third.
  3. Which description best fits a democratic leadership style?Answer: The leader encourages participation in decisions and seeks consensus.
  4. In Asch's conformity experiments, how did having a dissenting ally affect participants?Answer: Participants conformed about one-quarter as often.
  5. What is the bystander effect?Answer: People are less likely to intervene when others are present.

Based on Introduction to Sociology 3e by Tonja R. Conerly, Kathleen Holmes, Asha Lal Tamang (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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