According to the text, which two factors are important in defining a group?

The correct answer highlights that interaction and influence are fundamental elements in defining a group. For a group to exist, its members must engage with one another continuously; this interaction is crucial as it fosters relationships and establishes the group's dynamics. It is through interaction that individuals share ideas, collaborate on tasks, and develop a sense of belonging.

Influence complements interaction by illustrating how group members affect one another's behaviors, opinions, and decision-making processes. This influence can manifest through informal peer pressure, leadership roles, and shared goals, ultimately shaping the group's culture and effectiveness.

When combined, interaction and influence create the conditions necessary for a cohesive group, allowing for collaboration and a unified approach to achieving common objectives. Other options, while significant in their contexts, do not capture the fundamental essence of what defines a group as effectively as these two factors.