Reference groups
A premed student models her study habits and professional manner on a group of senior residents she admires but does not belong to. For her, the residents are a:
Answer B: explanation for every choice
A
A primary group is a close, personal group such as family.
B
Correct. A reference group is one people use as a standard for evaluating themselves, whether or not they belong to it.
C
A secondary group is an impersonal, goal-oriented group the person belongs to.
D
An out-group is one a person does not identify with and may view negatively.
TakeawayReference groups set the standard you compare yourself to.
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Reviewed 2026-11-05 by a medical student. Spot an error? Report it with question ID ps130.