Asked by Arianna Calzadilla on Jun 09, 2024
Verified
Charles had never been especially close to his nightshift coworkers until a massive ice storm followed by a blizzard shut down the city for days, blacking out power and making travel, even by foot, extremely hazardous. Suddenly, they pulled together, sharing resources and otherwise acting as a mutually supportive group while they remained stranded. This shows that
A) primary groups are very fluid and can change in response to circumstances.
B) in today's complex society, the distinction between primary and secondary groups is no longer useful.
C) secondary groups can take on the characteristics or primary groups in times of high stress.
D) Charles had underestimated the group's cohesiveness and had simply been an isolate.
Primary Groups
Small social groups whose members share close, personal, enduring relationships, such as families and close friends.
Secondary Groups
Secondary groups are larger, more formal social groups in which the personal, emotional connections are weaker, and relationships are often temporary and goal-oriented.
- Understand the significance of Cooley's notion of primary groups within the field of sociology.
Verified Answer
FT
Feliciano TchiloiaJun 14, 2024
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
The scenario illustrates how a secondary group, Charles' nightshift coworkers, took on the characteristics of a primary group during a time of high stress and need. This suggests that the distinction between primary and secondary groups is still relevant and that groups can adapt and change depending on the circumstances. It does not necessarily suggest that Charles had underestimated the group's cohesiveness or that primary groups are inherently fluid.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the significance of Cooley's notion of primary groups within the field of sociology.