Reference groups are social groups that individuals use as a standard to evaluate themselves and their behavior. They influence an individual's attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors, serving as benchmarks for social comparison.
Related terms
Social Identity: The portion of an individual's self-concept derived from perceived membership in a relevant social group.
Social Comparison: The process by which people compare themselves to others to assess worthiness, success, abilities, or opinions.
Norms: Unwritten rules established by societies or groups that guide behavior without the need for formal laws