Which of the following is NOT an example of secondary group?

JSSH Staff Nurse - 2019

Applied Sociology

Medium

Appeared in: JSSH Staff Nurse - 2019

Explanation

The family is the most fundamental example of a primary group.
Primary groups are defined by intimate, personal, and long-lasting relationships with strong emotional ties.
Unlike secondary groups, the purpose of a primary group like a family is the relationship itself, not the achievement of an external task.
The family is the first and most important agent of socialization for an individual.

Option A: A university class group is a secondary group because its members come together for a specific, formal purpose (education), and the relationships are typically temporary and impersonal.
Option C: An athletic class group is a secondary group. The members share a common interest and goal (fitness or sport), but the relationships are structured around that activity and are not necessarily personal or enduring.
Option D: A group of co-workers is a classic example of a secondary group. Interactions are professional, task-oriented, and governed by formal rules within a workplace setting.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Sociological classification of groups (Primary vs. Secondary) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding group dynamics is crucial for nurses. The family (a primary group) is a vital support system for a patient's recovery, and nurses must engage with them for effective care and discharge planning.
The healthcare team itself (doctors, nurses, therapists) functions as a secondary group. Clear communication, defined roles, and professional collaboration are essential for patient safety and quality outcomes.
What if a patient has no family or primary group support? The nurse must then be more proactive in identifying and coordinating with secondary support systems, such as social workers, community resources, or support groups, to ensure the patient's needs are met after discharge.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the keyword 'NOT' in the question. This indicates you are looking for the exception among the options.
Define the term in the question: 'secondary group'. A secondary group is large, impersonal, and goal-oriented.
The question is therefore asking, 'Which of these is a primary group?'
Evaluate each option against the definition of a primary group (small, personal, long-term, intimate relationships).
A 'University class group', 'Athletic class group', and 'Group of co-workers' are all formed for specific tasks and are impersonal. They are secondary groups.
'Family' is the only option that fits the definition of a primary group.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Sociological classification of groups (Primary vs. Secondary)
Stem keywords: secondary group
Lead-in keywords: NOT
Negative lead-in flag: The question uses the word 'NOT', which requires identifying the option that does not fit the category of a 'secondary group'. This means you are looking for the primary group.

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E6 Applied Sociology for Nurses TK Indrani pp. 71-73, 64-66