5.3 Group Size and Structure
A small group is typically small enough that all members of the group know each other and share simultaneous interactions, such as a nuclear family, a dyad, or a triad. German sociologist Georg Simmel (1858–1915) wrote extensively about the differences between a dyad, or two-member group, and a triad, or three-member group (Simmel 1950 [1902]). In the former, if one person withdraws, the group can no longer exist. For example, a divorce effectively ends the “group” of the married couple. Often dyads do not create a group structure, so a high level of individuality remains.
In a triad, however, the dynamic is quite different. If one person withdraws, the group lives on. A triad has a different set of relationships. If there are three in the group, two-against-one dynamics can develop, and a majority opinion may form on any issue.
In triads, a group structure can emerge in which new social roles become possible. The third person can serve as a mediator between the two other people in the group if a disagreement emerges. The third member could also try to instigate conflict between the other two people. Creating conflict then helps the third member take control of the group (Ritzer and Stepnisky 2022).
Small groups generally have strong internal cohesiveness and a sense of connection. However, they may face challenges when trying to achieve big goals. They can struggle to be heard or to be a force for change if they are pushing against larger groups.
It is difficult to define exactly when a small group becomes a large group. Perhaps it occurs when one group grows so large that there are too many people to join in a simultaneous discussion. Sometimes it occurs when a group joins with other groups as part of a movement. These larger groups may share a geographic space, such as a fraternity or sorority on the same campus, or they might be spread out around the globe. The larger the group, the more attention it can garner, and the more pressure members can put toward whatever goal they wish to achieve. At the same time, the larger the group becomes, the greater the risk for division and lack of cohesion.
Authority and Group Leadership
In most groups, some form of leadership emerges. This leadership could be temporary or long-lasting. The leader of the group needs to be perceived as legitimate by the group. This legitimacy allows the leader to make decisions and exercise power. German sociologist Max Weber identified three different types of authority that can exist in groups and organizations, building up to the larger social structures of the society like the government.
Traditional authority is power legitimized on the basis of long-standing customs or traditions. These traditions can be that leadership is inherited from one’s family or parents. Besides being inherited, traditional authority is often closely tied to religion, and the rulers justify their positions by arguing that a god or spiritual being chose them. Exampl