When a pressure group is made up of people of the same profession, it is called

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the name given to a pressure group whose members all share the same profession (for example, doctors, lawyers, teachers, or engineers).

Step 2: Explain the concept Pressure groups are classified in different ways:

• Promotional (cause) groups: formed to promote a particular cause or ideal, not tied to a profession. Examples are human rights groups and environmental groups.
• Interest (sectional) groups: a broad term for groups that protect the shared interests of their members. This can include professional bodies, but the term is general and does not point specifically to a profession.
• Associational groups: formally organised groups with structured membership, such as trade unions, student unions, and chambers of commerce.
• Occupational (professional) groups: groups whose members share the same profession or occupation. Examples are the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT).

Step 3: Apply to the question The key phrase is "people of the same profession." The type of pressure group defined by a common profession is the occupational group. This is more specific than "interest group," which is a general label that covers many kinds of groups.

Step 4: Check the options

• A. Promotional group: based on a cause, not a profession. ✗
• B. Occupation group: based on a shared profession. ✓
• C. Interest group: too general. ✗
• D. Associational group: based on formal organisation, not profession. ✗

Answer: B. an occupation group

Exam tip: Match the keyword in the question to the group type. "Profession" or "occupation" points to an occupational group, "cause" points to a promotional group, and "formal structure" points to an associational group. Remember that NMA, NBA, and NUT are all occupational groups.