Five members of Dr. Murphy's sociology class have formed a study group. They meet twice a week and study for two hours each time in a relaxed, informal setting. They enjoy their group so much that the five students have agreed to take several of the same courses next semester and continue their joint effort. What term would Charles Horton Cooley use to describe the study group?

Question

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A primary group is characterized by intimate, face-to-face interaction and a strong, lasting emotional connection between members. The study group fits this description as its members meet regularly, have an informal setting that allows for personal sharing, and enjoy each other's company. The other choices are not as fitting: a secondary group is characterized by more formal, goal-oriented relationships (such as a work team), while an in-group and a reference group are not necessarily focused on such strong emotional bonds.

Five Members of Dr