Reference Groups

Reference Groups

Reference Group may be defined as a group with which the individuals feel identified, the norms and objectives of which he accepts. A reference group may therefore by any group primary formal, horizontal or otherwise and strongly influences the behavior of an individual. A family neighborhood reference group may influence a farmer to accept or reject an adoption of improved farm practice. Individual assumes his point of view and attitudes toward various aspect of life. Individual may not be a member of his reference group but he identify with a reference group and aspire to be a member. A member of lower social class may have higher class group as his reference group, identify with it and aspire to be a member of it.