How and why is a social group represented in a particular way?

A social group, within social sciences, is defined as two or more people who interact with one another, share similar characteristics, and have a collective sense of unity. In general, a social group is represented as a group of people who have similar interests and beliefs. 

There are three types of social groups: primary, secondary and reference groups. 

Primary groupsare characterized by close-knit and intimate relationships. They often consist of the nuclear family structure, but can also...

A social group, within social sciences, is defined as two or more people who interact with one another, share similar characteristics, and have a collective sense of unity. In general, a social group is represented as a group of people who have similar interests and beliefs. 

There are three types of social groups: primary, secondary and reference groups. 

Primary groups are characterized by close-knit and intimate relationships. They often consist of the nuclear family structure, but can also exist as any other group formation that provides love, security, and companionship.

Secondary groups are characterized by impersonal relationships, and can vary in size. Secondary groups are found in the workplace or in school settings, where people come together to collaborate for group projects. Other examples of secondary social groupings are found in college courses or on sports teams. Lastly, all secondary social groupings are temporary, as they eventually come to an end. 

Reference groups are characterized by the groups we look up to. It is not required to actually be a part of a reference group (though you can be), so much as they are used for a standard or guidelines to follow. Examples of this are looking to the media for fashion advice or following a sports team closely to adapt their winning strategies. 

Social groups are represented differently because each social group has different values, beliefs, and forms of interaction. For example, a secondary social group like a group project represents itself much differently than a primary social group like the nuclear family would, because each interact for different purposes, and they both have different values and beliefs.