Reference groups refer to a. the relatively permanent, homogeneous divisions in a society that consists of people who share similar values, interests, and behaviors. b. individuals who exert direct or indirect social influence over others. c. people to whom an individual looks as a basis for self-appraisal or as a source of personal standards. d. those buyers who, through the size of their purchases, affect where marketing dollars will be spent. e. those with whom a person does not wish to be a member of or identified.