The plan for characterizing a social group is drawn up taking into account the objectives of the study and the type of group. Therefore, there can be many variations on this theme. However, there is a standard set of parameters that can be used as a basis and fill it with a special meaning in each specific case of working with a group.
Instructions
Step 1
First of all, determine the composition of the group. That is, describe all of its participants. Depending on the purpose for which you are compiling a characterization, the age of people, their gender, social status, hobbies, or a combination of similar signs may be important.
Step 2
Describe the status and role of each individual. Status is made up of the characteristics of a person and his actions within the group. See how the status is perceived by other members of the group, what expectations it raises. Role is not so static. Depending on the situation, the role, that is, the specific actions of a person, can change out of necessity.
Step 3
To find out how all the named people interact within one group, you need to consider its structure. There can be several structures. When describing the structure of communication, note how the interaction between the members of the group is built. The structure of power indicates who reports to whom, how the leader's work is organized, and what his influence over others is based on. If a given community of people has a goal, they do one thing, you can analyze the functions of each and the success of the group as a whole. The emotional structure can be viewed both autonomously and in interaction with all existing structures in the group.
Step 4
Then isolate and analyze the group processes. See how clearly and effectively they proceed, how they organize the functioning of the group. All processes must be viewed in dynamics, taking into account the development of the group over time.
Step 5
The general existence of people could not take place without a system of norms and values. This is another point in the analysis. The norms accepted in the group can be both traditional for society and attitudes that contradict them. State as precisely as possible the norms that you have noticed at this stage in the group's existence. Compare them with those that were during the "grinding" people to each other. Analyze how the composition and goals of the group have influenced the norms and how stable the general rules are today.
Step 6
The code of conduct is based on values. Describe the ones that are accepted in the group. Observe people and find out if all members of the group accept them, how do those who disagree with common values behave. In connection with norms and values, analyze the system of rewards and punishments that has been established in this community.
