A reference group is a collection of people that an individual or group uses as a standard for comparison. It is a group to which an individual relates or aspires to relate themselves psychologically, and it becomes the individuals frame of reference and source for ordering their experiences, perceptions, cognition, and ideas of self. Reference groups are important for determining a persons self-identity, attitudes, and social ties. They provide benchmarks and contrast needed for comparison and evaluation of group and personal characteristics.

Reference groups can be used in various fields, including sociology and marketing. In sociology, reference groups are used to evaluate and determine the nature of an individual or groups characteristics and sociological attributes. In marketing, reference groups include individuals or groups that influence our opinions, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors.

Some key points about reference groups are:

• They are used as a standard for comparison by individuals or groups.
• They become the individuals frame of reference and source for ordering their experiences, perceptions, cognition, and ideas of self.
• They are important for determining a persons self-identity, attitudes, and social ties.
• They provide benchmarks and contrast needed for comparison and evaluation of group and personal characteristics.
• They can be used in various fields, including sociology and marketing.