Reference group

Definition

A reference group is a social group that individuals use as a standard to evaluate themselves and their own behavior. It can influence an individual's attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors, serving as a benchmark for social comparison.

Related terms

Primary Group: A primary group is characterized by close, intimate, and usually long-term face-to-face relationships, like those among family members or close friends.

Secondary Group: This is a larger and more impersonal group that interacts for specific reasons for shorter periods of time, such as classmates or coworkers.

Social Comparison Theory: This theory posits that individuals determine their own social and personal worth based on how they stack up against others they perceive as somehow faring better or worse