Final answer:
A group without a professional leader where members support each other with specific problems is known as a mutual aid group. These groups rely on collective action and mutual decision-making, often functioning well in smaller, close-knit communities.
Step-by-step explanation:
This type of group that you are inquiring about is known as a mutual aid group or a self-help group. In such groups, members support each other in coping with a particular issue without the guidance of a professional leader. These collective action dynamics are more manageable in small, close-knit groups, where individuals are more compelled to contribute and less likely to engage in free riding. An example is a group of friends deciding on plans for an outing; they tend to discuss informally and arrive at a consensus without a formal leader.
In contrast to structures such as tribal societies, where extended families or councils might take on leadership roles collectively, a self-help group operates on the principle of mutual aid without a formal hierarchy. This approach to problem-solving and decision-making can be effective in addressing specific problems within small groups. However, as groups expand in size, there may be a need for more structured leadership to facilitate order and organization.