Differences between Primary Groups and Secondary Groups
Both primary and secondary groups can be distinguished from each other from the following points:
1. Difference in Meaning: The primary group is the nucleus of all social organizations. It is characterized by intimate face-to-face association and cooperation. They are primary in several senses but fundamental in forming individuals' social natures and ideals. Family, playgroup and neighbourhood are examples of primary groups. But secondary groups are large-scale groups in which the relationships are relatively casual, impersonal and competitive. They are consciously formed to fulfill some common goals or objectives. For example, City, Political Party, etc.
2. Difference in Size: A primary group is small and confined to a small area. Because it consists of a very small number of individuals. But the size of a secondary group is very large and it is spread all over the world. Because it consists of thousands of members who are widespread and scattered worldwide.
3. Difference in Stability: Primary groups are relatively stable or durable. For example, a family is a stable organization. But a secondary group may be temporary or permanent. These are temporary groups like flood relief associations. As secondary groups are special interest groups, after the fulfillment of the interest, it automatically vanishes.
4. Difference in Co-operation: The nature of co-operation in a primary and secondary group also differs. The members of a primary group directly co-operate with each other. They play, sit and discuss together. Because of face-to-face contact and personal relationships, direct co-operation among members is possible. But the members of a secondary group indirectly cooperate with each other. Because there exist indirect relations among the members.
5. Difference in Structure: According to the type of structure, both primary and secondary groups can be distinguished. The primary group is based on an informal structure and is very simple. All the members participate in the same process, which is regulated by informal rules and regulations. On the other hand, the secondary group is based on a formal structure and is regulated by a set of formal rules and regulations.
6. Difference in Relationships: Many differences are found in the relationships among primary and secondary group members. Direct, intimate and personal relationships exist among the members of a primary group. The relations are all-inclusive because the primary group is relationship-directed. However, indirect and impersonal relations exist among the members of a secondary group. Here, relations are secondary and formal.
7. Difference in the method of social control: Both primary and secondary groups can be distinguished based on how they exercise control over their members. The primary group exercises control over its members through informal means such as customs, folkways, mores, etc. Secondary groups have limited control over their members. But secondary groups control the behaviour of their members through formal means such as police, jail, court, law, etc.
8. Difference in Goal: Primary group members have similar or common aims and objectives. The goal of a particular member is considered the goal of all other members. However, in a secondary group, members have different goals. Each individual has his own goals or aims for the fulfillment of which he joins the group.
9. Difference in effect on Personality: Both primary and secondary groups can be distinguished based on the degree by which they affect or determine an individual's personality. The primary group has a greater influence on the development of personality. It influences the total personality of an individual. However, the secondary group has little influence on the development of an individual's personality. It is mainly concerned with a particular aspect of an individual’s personality.
10. Differences in Physical Closeness: Both primary and secondary groups may be distinguished from each other on the grounds of physical nearness. Members of a primary group live in physical proximity to each other. There exists face-to-face relations among the members. But members of a secondary group are the members of a secondary group.
These differences highlight the contrasting roles and functions of these two types of social groups in society.
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