Final answer:
A primary group is more likely to be considered an in-group due to its intimate and enduring emotional connections while secondary, reference, and social categories lack this level of personal investment and emotional impact.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding In-Groups in Social Context
When differentiating types of groups in a social context, primary groups are more likely to constitute an in-group compared to secondary groups, reference groups, or social categories. A primary group is typically a small, informal assembly of individuals, such as family or close friends, providing emotional support and serving expressive functions. In essence, these groups include those who have a significant emotional impact on our lives and help shape our identities.
In contrast, secondary groups are larger and more impersonal; they are usually task-focused and formed for a specific purpose, like a classroom or workplace. These groups serve instrumental functions and are time-limited. While in-groups can form within secondary groups, they don't have the same intimate or enduring nature as those within primary groups.
Reference groups are used as a standard for self-evaluation and behavior. They might become in-groups if an individual identifies strongly with them and they meet their emotional needs. Finally, social categories are broad and not necessarily groups in which one has personal interactions or emotional investments.