UNIT 1: Concepts of Social Structure 1.1 What is Social Structure? Social structure refers to the organized patterns of relationships, institutions, and norms that form the framework of a society. It describes how society is organized — who has power, how resources are distributed, what roles people play, and how groups relate to each other. Social structure shapes every aspect of life: where people live, what jobs they do, who they marry, how they worship, and what opportunities they have. Understanding Nigeria's social structure is essential for understanding the roots of its conflicts and paths to peace. 1.2 Key Elements of Social Structure • Social Institutions: Established organizations that meet societal needs — family, education, religion, government, economy. • Social Groups: Collections of people who share characteristics and interact — ethnic groups, religious communities, classes. • Social Roles: Behavior expected of people in particular positions — parent, teacher, leader, citizen. • Social Norms: Shared rules and expectations that guide behavior — customs, laws, moral codes. • Social Stratification: Hierarchical ranking of individuals and groups by wealth, status, or power.