Reference group
A reference group is a group against which a person compares his or her behaviors, values, status, or decisions.
Definition
The reference group influences what we consider normal, desirable, shameful or valuable. It can enhance development when it provides good role models and support, but it can also trigger pressure, comparison and decisions that are inconsistent with one's own values. Awareness of reference groups helps to regain autonomy of choice.
Key ideas
Missing key ideas.
Practice and life
List three groups you compare yourself to. For each, indicate whether this influence strengthens you, weakens you, or distorts your priorities.
Common misunderstanding
It is a mistake to assume that choices are completely independent of the environment. The second mistake is to select the reference group only by status, not by values.
Questions for self-reflection
No questions for self-reflection.
Sources
No sources.