In this article we will discuss about the method of describing the structure and relation among the group.
Group structure has been studied through Sociometric method by Moreno.
The Sociometric Method of Moreno (1934) has been used to determine the complex network of interrelationships that exist within the group members. In simple terms it shows the relationship between the different members of a group.
Its aim is to establish the pattern of feelings of acceptance and rejection, like and dislike that exist among the members of a group. Moreno says that the most significant social groupings are based on the above feelings than on formal structure.
The understanding of group life can be best achieved according to him through a study of spontaneous grouping by Sociometric method. Also by this method it can be traced how they adjust, reconcile or conflict with the formal group structure imposed externally.
After all, what a Sociometric method involves? In this method every member of the group is asked to specify privately which other members he likes, wishes to work, sit and chat, eat meals together and live with and which are the members whom he dislikes, does not wish to join them in a party or dinner and simple wishes to avoid.
Thus, the technique of Sociometric method is very simply and straight. The data obtained from the different members can be plotted to make a sociogram.
The sociogram indicates the general pattern of mutual like, dislike and indifference. From this the structure of the group can be assessed at a glance. The frequency of contact between two persons or pairs of individuals in a group also gives an idea of grouping.
In the Sociometric study conducted on a New Mexican village, ‘Loomis (1941) ascertained the frequency of contact like eating meals together, lending firm equipment among families. These factors revealed the essential social groups in the village.
From the investigations of Moreno and several others on group structure, social organisation, leadership qualities through sociometric method some typical sociometric patterns have emerged.
Some of them are described below:
(a) Isolates:
Member of the group who are not liked or accepted by other members or who have no contact with others are called isolates. They may subsequently tend to leave the group under pressure.
(b) Pairs:
Pairs are groups of two who are mutually attracted. A face to face group belongs to this type of group structure.
(c) Triangles:
Triangles are groups of threes where each person knows the other two persons directly.
(d) Chains:
In the Chain pattern one member of the group does not know the other members directly but only indirectly through another member. For instance, A knows B and B knows C, C knows D. A knows C only through B or A can know D only through C. When the groups are large, chain pattern may be formed as everyone does not have the scope to keep contact with other members directly.
(e) Star:
Large groupings may form star pattern. Star pattern refers to a dictatorial or authoritarian group structure. All the group members except one person centralize around that person who is the ‘Leader’. Without the leader the subgroups cannot continue or sustain and finally may collapse.
Thus, existence of such a group depends upon the existence of the leader. For every action, every decision the members have to depend upon the leader. In such a group every member has no direct connection with the other but only through the leader. If the leader disappears, the whole group would disintegrate within no time.
(f) Net:
Net patterns represent the structure of democratic group with larger grouping. In such a group different members have link with each other and other members. Here each person has contact with the other directly. Even if the leader is absent, the group still sustains. Each and every member of net pattern does not select one person as the leader. They are free to select many according to their wish and desire.
Keeping other factors constant in a net pattern because of the democratic atmosphere of the group, there is internal cohesion and hence high morale. In a democratic group specialization of function is inevitable and different members are allotted with different functions.
The job is distributed. This distribution of function is important from the stand point of leadership. Net pattern has many interlocking connections and so it has the most complex structure in group relationship. Here the tendency is always to hold together.
A group having the structure of a net pattern is usually stronger and resists change and has more chance of survival than any other group. In authoritarian and democratic groups the distribution of function differs significantly.
The formation of a stable group usually depends upon the leadership and on the interaction provided by group members. A number of industrial reports show that smaller unions with a democratic leader and short turn goals and high morale often become permanent organisations, keeping other factors constant.
As held by Jenkins, leadership is specific to the particular situation under investigation. For instance, Thraster has pointed out in his study of gangs, the qualities and talents necessary for a gang leadership is in group out group feeling.
However, over and above the specific and situational qualities required, by and large, emergence of a leader depends upon physical feature, intelligence, prestige, tact, initiative, capacity to hold group members together etc.
It is quite difficult for a group to remain disconnected from other social, political, economic and religious groups. When so many groups are combined to one group, their strength increases. Positive relationship with a large member of societies or groups add to its strength.
Affiliation is one of the major factors, determining the structure of the groups. Hence the relationship between different social organisations should be congenial.