Groups we use as standards to evaluate ourselves (either positively, in terms of the positions we aspire to achieve, or negatively, in terms of the positions we wish to avoid) are called:
A) secondary groups.
B) reference groups.
C) out-groups.
D) in-groups.
E) networks.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Reference groups are groups that individuals use as a standard for evaluating themselves and their own attitudes, values, and behaviors. These groups may be aspirational (i.e. groups that individuals aspire to join) or avoidance (i.e. groups that individuals wish to avoid being associated with). Secondary groups are groups that people come together with for a specific purpose or goal, while in-groups and out-groups are groups based on social identity and network refers to the web of relationships among individuals. Therefore, the best choice is B.

Groups We Use as Standards to Evaluate Ourselves (Either Positively