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What is Social Structure

Social structure is the complex arrangement of groups, institutions, and relationships within society that work interdependently to maintain order and balance. It is characterized by its abstract nature, changeability, and the unique rules governing different societies. Social structures consist of various units with defined roles, arising from social interactions, and can be categorized into different types based on achieved and ascribed patterns.

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1 views

What is Social Structure

Social structure is the complex arrangement of groups, institutions, and relationships within society that work interdependently to maintain order and balance. It is characterized by its abstract nature, changeability, and the unique rules governing different societies. Social structures consist of various units with defined roles, arising from social interactions, and can be categorized into different types based on achieved and ascribed patterns.

Uploaded by

bloreyaneetu
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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What is Social Structure?

Meaning of Social Structure:

Social structure is the intricate and interdependent arrangement of various


components within society, such as groups, institutions, and social relationships.
These parts work together in harmony, fulfilling their respective functions and
maintaining a balance in society. No part of society operates in isolation; instead,
each unit relies on others to function effectively. For instance, family, religion,
education, and government are all parts of the social structure, and they interact
and depend on one another to sustain societal order. Over time, social structures
change due to both natural forces and human influences, reflecting the adaptability
and evolution of society. The social structure thus acts as a web of relationships,
where every unit interacts with others, forming a cohesive system.

 Definition: According to Talcott Parsons:- Social structure is a term applied


to the particular arrangement of an interrelated institutions, agencies and
social patterns as well as the status and roles which each person assumes in
the group.
Characteristics of Social Structure

 Different Societies have different Social Structure: Each society possesses unique rules and
regulations, resulting in diverse social structures. The way people function and the structure of
institutions vary considerably across cultures. For example, India, America, and Britain each
have unique social structures.

 It refers to the External Aspect of the Society: Social structure focuses on the external
arrangement of society's parts, not their internal workings. It’s how different parts combine to
form the overall structure, similar to how different body parts form a human body.

 Social Structure is Abstract Nature: Social structure is an abstract concept, representing the
interrelationships of different units of the society, group, caste, institution etc. We cannot
visually see, touch or measure these interdependencies. It can be felt only. That’s why it is in
abstract form.

 Social Structure is Changeable: Social structure is dynamic, not static. It adapts to societal
changes; however, while elements within the structure might change, its basic components
often remain. For example, family and education systems persist, though their function might
evolve.

 Hierarchy: Our Physical body made up of many small structures like neck, arm, leg, face etc. All
these small structure form a large structure In the same way in Society, different categories and
and layers are there which jointly make a Social structure. In short Social Structure consists of
sub-structures within a larger framework, similar to how a human body is composed of smaller
structures.

 Every Unit of a Social structure has a Definite Positions: Our Social structure is made up of
different units. Each unit in the social structure holds a defined and limited position. No unit can
completely replace another and cannot go beyond its limits. For example Religion, School,
family, caste etc are different units of social structure. Religion never does function of school.
School never does function of family etc. because every unit works in its limited area and have
distinct roles that can't fully overlap.

 Social Structure is the Product of Social Interaction: Social structure arises from the interaction
and interdependence of its various units. Communication and mutual support between these
units contribute to the overall social structure.

 Universal and Unique Elements: Some social structure elements are universal (social
relationships), while others are unique to specific societies (rules and regulations). Social
relationships are fundamental; no society can develop without them.

 Sequential Arrangement of Units: Social structure isn't just a collection of units; it's a sequential
arrangement. Just as a house needs bricks, cement, and other materials in a specific order,
social structures require interdependent units to function correctly.

Types of Social Structure

 Universal Achieved Pattern: This type features universal patterns (present across societies) and
achieved patterns (obtained through effort). Universal patterns include community, caste, and
class. Achieved patterns are things individuals acquire through their actions.

 Universal-Ascribed Pattern: This pattern emphasizes ascribed statuses (determined at birth,


such as family status or personality traits) over achieved statuses. It highlights that many things
we have are given to us without our effort.

 Particularistic Achieved Pattern: This focuses on specific achievements, emphasizing unique


skills or accomplishments gained through effort.

 Particularistic-Ascribed Pattern: This emphasizes specific ascribed characteristics from family


and group that are unique to a certain society, impacting an individual's role but not necessarily
heavily involving them in social activities. The focus is on what is already given rather than
achieved.

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