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There is a thin line difference between quasi group and social group. A group of people
can take the form of a quasi-group at some point and as a social group in specific
circumstances. For instance, teenagers worrying about acne and pimples, teenagers in
metropolitan cities, etc. can be examples of quasi groups. However, in specific
circumstances when the group of teenagers turns out to be studying in the same class, a
group of common friends, etc., it becomes social groups.

CHARACTERISTICS OF SOCIAL GROUPS
A social group can be said to have at least the following characteristics:

1. persistent interaction to provide continuity;

2. a stable pattern of these inter- actions;

3. a sense of belonging to identify with other members, i.e. each individual is
conscious of the group itself and its own set of rules, rituals and symbols;

4. Shared interest

5. acceptance of common norms and values

6. a definable structure

Types of Social Group :

Primary Group Secondary Group

Different sociologists have classified social groups differently. In their classifications they take
different criterion into account.

Primary Group and Secondary Group on basis of size/type of relationship
It is the most well- known classification given by Cooley on the basis of size and type of
relationship shared among its members.