Formal group

In sociology and other social sciences, formal groups are social groups whose goals, norms and roles as well as statutes, ordinances and guidelines are expressly specified or determined by the group itself. As a rule, formal groups are firmly organized, have a purpose-built structure and are directed according to plan. Membership in such a community usually begins and ends with a formal act.

Almost all youth associations , youth organizations , clubs and parties are formal groups in the sociological sense. But class sizes and working groups among this group type.

In contrast, there is the informal group , which has not (yet) developed these formal structures and whose membership is rather loose.