Final answer:
Interest groups seek to influence government policies and can represent both economic and noneconomic interests. They are not always affiliated with political parties and play a significant role in the political process. They engage in various forms of lobbying to advocate for their causes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the characteristics of interest groups and their role in the political process. Among the options provided, the true statement about interest groups is that they seek to influence government policies. Interest groups are important as they provide means for members of society to influence political decision-making, beyond merely participating in elections.
Interest groups can be economic, such as business groups, labour unions, agricultural groups, or professional associations; or noneconomic, like public interest groups, single-issue groups, civil rights groups, and ideological groups. They work on inside lobbying, creating formal relationships with officials, and outside lobbying, rallying public support. While they foster democratic participation, they can also lead to factionalism and may create an environment where minority voices are disproportionately heard if they have significant economic resources.
It's crucial to recognize that not all interest groups are affiliated with political parties, and they certainly do not represent only economic interests. Additionally, the impact they have on the political process is significant, as they actively seek to shape policy and can wield considerable influence through fundraising and advocacy.