peer group

views updated May 29 2018

peer group A set of individuals who, sharing certain common characteristics such as age, ethnicity, or occupation, perceive themselves and are recognized by others as a distinct social collectivity. The group is seen to have its own culture, symbols, sanctions, and rituals, into which the new member must be socialized, and according to which those who fail to comply with group norms may be ostracized.

peer group

views updated May 21 2018

peer group • n. a group of people of approximately the same age, status, and interests.

group, peer

views updated May 11 2018

group, peer See PEER GROUP.