Question

Read the following statements carefully:
1. Primary groups are characterized by close personal relationships.
2. Family is an example of a secondary group.
Choose the correct option:

• A. Both statements are true
• B. Both statements are false
• C. Statement 1 is true, but Statement 2 is false
• D. Statement 1 is false, but Statement 2 is true

Hint:

Think of "Primary" as "First" and "Most Personal."
The family is your first and most intimate circle, making it the classic primary group.
On the other hand, secondary groups are "impersonal and formal," like a bank or a corporate office where transactions are purely task-oriented.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
This statement-based question requires us to evaluate the conceptual validity of two assertions regarding the sociological classification of social groups.
We need to determine which statements are true or false based on standard sociological definitions.

Step 2: Key Approach:
The sociological framework used here is the classification of groups into primary and secondary categories.
This binary classification was formulated by the American sociologist Charles Horton Cooley in his book, Social Organization, published in 1909.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

• Evaluating Statement 1: Primary groups are small social groups whose members share close, personal, intimate, and enduring relationships.

• Nature of Primary Groups: Members of primary groups interact face-to-face, know each other deeply, and show mutual care and concern. Examples include family, close childhood friends, and playgroups. Therefore, Statement 1 is completely true.

• Evaluating Statement 2: Secondary groups are larger, formal, impersonal, and goal-oriented groups.

• Nature of Secondary Groups: Interactions in secondary groups are superficial, temporary, and contractual (e.g., labor unions, business corporations, or university departments).

• Family Classification: The family is the most fundamental primary group because it is where primary socialization takes place, characterized by deep emotional bonds. Classifying family as a secondary group is incorrect. Therefore, Statement 2 is false.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Since Statement 1 is true and Statement 2 is false, the correct option is (C).