Which of the following is a kind of social institution?

Appeared in: DSSSB - 29 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

Marriage is a social institution because it represents a formal, established system of norms, customs, and procedures that govern relationships between individuals.
In sociology, an institution is an abstract framework of rules, not a group of people. Marriage, as a set of sanctioned practices, fits this definition.
It provides a structured framework for family life, procreation, and the socialization of children, making it a fundamental institution in society.

Option A: The family is a primary social group, which is a type of social association. It is a concrete group of people, whereas marriage is the abstract set of rules the family follows.
Option C: Government refers to the specific organization or group of people that administers a state, making it an association.
Option D: Employment is a type of contractual relationship or a status that exists within the larger economic institution. It is a component of the economic system, not an institution in its own right.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Distinction between Social Institution and Social Association as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This is a foundational concept in sociology, a subject in the nursing curriculum. Understanding social structures helps nurses appreciate the societal context of their patients' lives.
For community health nurses, recognizing the roles of different institutions (like marriage and family norms) and associations (like community groups) is crucial for planning effective health interventions.
What if? If the question had asked for an example of a social 'association', 'Family' or 'Government' would have been correct answers, as they are organized groups of people.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept in the question: 'social institution'.
Recall the specific sociological definition. An institution is a system of norms, procedures, and established ways of doing things. It is abstract.
Contrast this with a social association, which is a concrete group of people organized for a purpose.
Evaluate each option: 'Family' and 'Government' are groups of people (associations). 'Employment' is a status.
Conclude that 'Marriage' is a system of rules and procedures, making it the best fit for the definition of an institution.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Applied Sociology for Nurses TK Indrani pp. 75-77, 208-210, 44-46

Practise the full DSSSB - 29 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.