Prepare for the MCAT Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

A social group is characterized by a set of individuals who share a common identity and engage in social interactions with one another. This shared identity can stem from various factors such as norms, values, or interests, which facilitate cooperation, communication, and a sense of belonging among members. The interactions within the group help to foster relationships and contribute to the development of social structures, making this definition a holistic representation of what constitutes a social group.

In contrast, a collection of unrelated individuals does not reflect the necessary connections or interactions that define a social group. Similarly, a demographic segment of a population might describe a category within a larger group based on characteristics such as age, gender, or socio-economic status, but it does not imply the social dynamics or relationships that form a social group. Lastly, a group bound solely by geographic location may not necessarily display the interpersonal interactions or shared identity that characterize a true social group; individuals within a geographic area might not engage with one another in a meaningful way. Hence, the definition that emphasizes shared identity and social interactions accurately encapsulates the essence of a social group.