Difference between primary group and secondary group:-

by - March 14, 2023

Difference between primary group and secondary group:-



Difference between primary group and secondary group:-

Several differences exist between primary and secondary groups. The differences between primary and secondary groups are –

1. Difference based on concept:-
Primary groups refer to groups based on face-to-face, direct and deep relationships and companionship.
On the other hand, secondary group refers to the indirect, external, contractually bound related group formed out of necessity.

2. Example :-
Examples of primary groups are – family, inner group, sports team – etc.
On the other hand, examples of secondary groups are - political parties, states - etc.

3. Origin :-
Primary groups are formed spontaneously or voluntarily.
On the other hand, secondary groups are purposefully formed.

4. Size :-
Primary groups are small in size. The smaller the group size, the stronger the correlation.
On the other hand, secondary groups are very large in size. There are also groups that can live all over the world.

5. Relation of Members :-
Primary groups are formed based on primary relationships. This primary relationship is face-to-face, intimate, personal, cohesive.
On the other hand, secondary relationships are predominant in secondary groups. Such relationship is indirect, external, contractual.


6. Durability :-
The primary group is relatively long-lived.
On the other hand, secondary groups are usually short-lived or temporary. The sustainability of such groups largely depends on the nature and scope of the objective.

7. Physical Proximity :-
Physical proximity is considered essential in primary groups. A face-to-face relationship does not exist without physical proximity.
On the other hand, physical proximity is necessary but not essential in secondary groups. Moreover, physical proximity is not always possible in large secondary groups.

8. Geographical Range :-
Primary group members are residents of specific geographic areas.
But, members of secondary groups tend to inhabit relatively large geographical areas.

9. Nature of Cooperation :-
The cooperation that occurs between primary group members is largely direct in nature. For example, mother's support towards children.
On the other hand, cooperation between subordinate group members is largely indirect in nature. E.g. - An absentee member only pays the annual subscription which is contributed.

10. Nature of social control and means of control:-
The nature of primary group social control is largely informal. Values, ethos, folk policy, moral code, public opinion etc. are used as means of social control.
On the other hand, the nature of social control of subordinate groups is statutory. Most of the regulations in these cases are written in the form of laws. The means of control are therefore law, police, force etc.

11. Membership :-
Primary group membership is fairly mandatory. As such, each individual is born into his family without his knowledge.
On the other hand, membership in secondary groups is voluntary. Generally, a person cannot be forced to accept membership of a secondary group against his will. However, as an exception, even though the state is a secondary group, its membership is binding on the individual.

12. Group interest:-
The group interest of the primary group is common. Most of the basic needs of life are met by the primary group.
On the other hand, secondary groups are formed around a particular interest. So it is called Special Interest Group.


13. Communication between members:-
Primary group members are physically close . So communication between them is direct or face to face.
On the other hand, mass media such as mail, radio, television, newspaper, telephone, news media - etc. act as means of communication between the members of secondary groups to stay scattered.

14. Group Structure:-
Primary groups do not have any organizational structure. Hence it is an unorganized and unregulated group.
On the other hand, secondary groups are relatively organized and formal.

15. Effects on personality:-
The role of primary group in shaping the individual's personality is undeniable and essential.
But the influence of secondary groups on personality is not so active.

16. Role in Socialization :-
Primary groups play a very important role in the interaction or socialization between individuals and societies.
But the role of secondary groups in socialization is very negligible.

17. Predominance and Importance:-
Primary groups predominate in most simple, rural, agrarian societies.
On the other hand, secondary groups predominate in highly complex, urban, industrialized modern societies.

18. Number :-
Primary groups are quite few in number.
But the secondary groups are numerous and varied in number.

19. Various Names :-
Gisbert called the primary group the face to face group.
On the other hand C.H. Cooley calls secondary groups “other groups”.

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