Final answer:
Interest groups fulfill social roles by advocating policies and engaging citizens politically, with people supporting groups that resonate with their beliefs. They influence policies through various forms of activism and campaign contributions, and joining these groups can help members feel politically active and connected.
Step-by-step explanation:
Interest groups serve various social purposes such as advocating for certain policies, facilitating civic engagement, and representing the interests of their members. Some people may decide to support interest groups because they align with their personal beliefs or policy preferences. For example, an individual who supports Second Amendment rights may choose to join the National Rifle Association (NRA), while someone in favor of stricter gun control might support the Brady: United Against Gun Violence.
Interest groups influence policies in numerous ways, including fundraising, organizing rallies, mobilizing membership for letter-writing campaigns, and lobbying. They fund candidates who support their ideologies and may grade politicians according to their stances on issues relevant to the group. While this can lead to greater political participation, it also raises concerns about the level of influence these groups can have, especially when it comes to political campaign contributions.
Joining an interest group can help individuals feel more connected to the political and social community. Membership groups consist of individuals driven by common concerns, and they can facilitate action through organization. However, the socioeconomic status of individuals can be a predictor of involvement in interest groups, with more affluent individuals or organizations sometimes having a greater influence.