Blackwell Reference Online

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The term reference group denotes a cluster of social psychological concepts pertaining to the relationship between individual identities, social norms, and social control. Reference groups may constitute a group into which individuals are members, as well as those groups to which one does not belong. The utility of the term lies in its ability to provide an explanation as to how social groups influence individual values, attitudes, and behavior. Muzafer Sherif articulated early applications of reference group theory in the 1940s. At the time, understanding of human behavior focused on subjective interpretations and classic behaviorism regarding the relationship between the individual and his or her environment. Sherif instead started moving away from subjective interpretations by introducing the concept of “frames of reference” to highlight the significance of the individual actively striving to gain acceptance into a group. Sherif's work challenged prevalent thinking; his contribution included emphasis on relationships between people, underscoring group dynamics for understanding individuals. One important aspect of Sherif's thinking for reference group theory is the notion that reference groups do not automatically constitute membership groups. The link between individual identities and reference groups is determined by the context within which individuals interact with groups. ... log in or subscribe to read full text