Social structures refer to the organized patterns of relationships and institutions that shape society. They include various elements such as families, communities, schools, and governments, which work together to create a framework for social interaction. These structures influence how individuals behave, interact, and fulfill their roles within society. Additionally, social structures can be categorized into different levels, such as micro (individual or small group interactions), meso (community or organizational level), and macro (national or global systems). Understanding these structures helps to analyze social issues, such as inequality and access to resources, and how they affect people's lives.