Pressure Groups: Types, Methods, and Influence

This lesson examines pressure groups — organised groups that seek to influence government policy without seeking to hold office. Pressure groups are a vital part of a pluralist democracy and provide citizens with a channel for political participation between elections.

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What is a Pressure Group?

A pressure group (also called an interest group or advocacy group) is an organisation that seeks to influence public policy on a particular issue or set of issues. Unlike political parties, pressure groups do not seek to win elections or form a government.

Feature	Pressure Group	Political Party
Goal	Influence policy on specific issues	Win elections and form government
Scope	Narrow (often single-issue)	Broad range of policies
Candidates	Do not stand candidates	Stand candidates in elections
Accountability	Accountable to members	Accountable to the electorate

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Types of Pressure Groups

Sectional (Interest) Groups

Sectional groups represent the interests of a particular section of society. Membership is usually restricted to those who belong to that section.