Describe what is meant when Vold (1958) argues that individuals are “group-involved beings.” Who both influences and is influenced by the groups of which they are a part?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Individuals become a part of their groups because of similar interests with other group members. The more similarity between the interests and loyalties of its members, the stronger the group. Groups are created because of the needs of group members; groups that cannot fulfill these needs are disbanded, while groups that can fulfill them flourish and become stronger. Old groups are disbanded when they can no longer further their cause, and new groups form with the onslaught of new interests or needs. Society, then, is made up of constant interaction between these various groups. Groups jockey for position and power in relation to the other groups and, through the “social process,” gain and/or lose status relative to their counterparts. What is most important about this part of Vold’s theory is that groups are in a constant state of action as they fight for the interests of their constituents. Conflict arises between groups when their interests and needs overlap. Groups that do not have overlapping interests and needs are less likely to develop a conflicted relationship with one another. When interests and needs overlap, there is the danger of one group replacing the other.