Consider the following statements: I. A primary group is relatively smaller in size. II. Intimacy is an essential characteristic of a primary group. III. A family may be an example of a primary group. In the light of the above statements, which one of the following is true?

Explanation:

The statements describe the characteristics of a primary group: small size (I), intimacy (II), and examples like family (III).

Let's analyze each option:

A) All families are primary groups: While most families are primary groups, especially nuclear families, this statement uses "all," which can be problematic. Very large, extended families where members do not interact intimately or frequently might not strictly fit the definition for every single member. However, the core family unit is a classic primary group.

B) All primary groups are families: This is incorrect. Primary groups also include close-knit friendship circles, childhood play groups, or small, intimate communities. Not all of these are families.

C) A group of smaller size is always a primary group: This is incorrect. A small group of strangers (e.g., people waiting in a queue) is small but lacks intimacy and enduring relationships, thus not a primary group. Small size is a necessary but not sufficient condition.

D) Members of a primary group know each other intimately: This is correct and directly supported by Statement II, which states that "Intimacy is an essential characteristic of a primary group." Intimacy implies deep personal knowledge and understanding among members. This is a defining feature of any primary group.

Therefore, D is the most accurate and unequivocally true statement derived from the definition of a primary group.