What is a defining characteristic of a private interest group?

A defining characteristic of a private interest group is that it benefits a select group of individuals or organizations. Private interest groups are typically formed to advocate for specific, often narrow interests that serve the needs and desires of their members rather than the general public. Their efforts are directed towards promoting policies that will provide advantages or benefits to their specific group, which can include businesses, professional associations, labor unions, or other entities.

In contrast, organizations that focus on the public good tend to represent broader societal interests and are not classified as private interest groups. Moreover, private interest groups do not operate as governmental bodies; their primary influence comes from advocacy and lobbying efforts rather than governance. Additionally, while many private interest groups do engage in lobbying as a means to influence legislation or public policy in their favor, the defining characteristic is their focus on benefiting a narrow set of interests rather than the public as a whole.