Pressure group I

Civic Education S.S.S 2 Second term

WEEK 1

Pressure group I

Performance Objectives

Student should be able to:

1. State the meaning of pressure group2. Mention the types

Content

1. Meaning pressure group

2. Types of pressure group

Meaning of Pressure group

A pressure group is an organisation which attempts to influence government policies through protests and demonstrations. Pressure groups are formed when people with similar opinions get together for similar objectives.

Types of Pressure group

 1. Economic pressure groups:

These pressure groups focus on the economic wellbeing of their members. They comprise mostly producers and manufacturers. Examples are the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN).

2. Professional or occupational pressure groups:

These are pressure groups embracing workers of the same occupation or profession who try to protect their work or professional interests. Nigerian Medical Association, Nigeria Union of Teachers, Nigerian Bar Association, and the National Union of Road Transport Workers are examples.

3. Religious pressure groups:

These are pressure groups of people that belong to the same religion and wish to influence government decisions in favour of their belief or members. Examples are Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and the Christian Association of Nigeria.

4. Promotional groups:

These are pressure groups that promote some causes which may not directly benefit their members. Examples are National Council for Eradicating Illiteracy, Human Rights groups and the Red Cross.

5. Anomic pressure groups:

These are interest groups that use violence, demonstrations, arson, assassination, strikes and the like in expressing their aims and objectives. They are mob groups, not well organised but may be interested in some common goals. Street demonstrators and student riot groups are examples.