A variety of typologies of groups have been developed by theorists. The approach taken here extends these prior efforts at developing comprehensive typologies. Like Hare's approach, ours is a functional one. This perspective assumes that the profound tendency for humans to gather in groups reflects the usefulness of groups to their members. Groups promote contact between people, they regulate relations with others, and increase the quality and duration of social interaction.
Groups provide members with a sense of inclusion and security.
Groups, and cohesive groups in particular, provide the opportunity for warm, supportive, loving relationships with others. Friendship groups, cohesive work groups, and families are all examples of groups that create strong bonds of affection between members. Groups are often the means people use to achieve their personal and interpersonal goals. Groups do things, and so help members increase their productivity, accomplish their personal and shared goals, and complete tasks that individuals could not accomplish if working alone. Groups help members cope with minor and major life crises by providing them with emotional and tangible resources.