What are groups of people who are related through blood, marriage, or strong emotional bonds referred to as?

The term that best defines groups of people who are connected through blood relations, marriage, or strong emotional ties is "family and kinship." This concept encompasses not only traditional familial relationships but also the broader networks of social connections that can arise from these ties. Family and kinship denote the primary social unit that significantly influences individuals' social identity, support systems, and obligations.

The concept of family and kinship is foundational in many societies, as these bonds determine roles, responsibilities, and the structure of support systems among individuals. This includes both immediate family and extended relations, highlighting the importance of both biological and social connections in defining a person's place within a community.

In contrast, "social networks" represent a broader and more diverse set of connections among individuals, which may or may not include familial ties. "Fictive kin" refers specifically to relationships that resemble family ties but do not arise from blood or marriage, such as close friends or mentors. "Cultural groups," meanwhile, denote collections of individuals united by shared cultural practices and beliefs, rather than specifically familial or kinship ties. Therefore, the term "family and kinship" best encapsulates the intended meaning of the question regarding the nature of relationships defined by blood, marriage, or emotional bonds.