 Dear students, in this module, we are going to talk about different types of groups. We have already talked about primary and secondary groups. However, apart from these two classifications, there are some other classifications as well. For example, in groups and out groups. In groups refer to the groups which we feel a sense of belonging and loyalty, while out groups are the groups in which we feel a sense of opposition and competition. For any individual member, these groups are their own group in which they are a member and a sense of belonging and identity. Compared to them, the group in which they are the out group is not a part of them or possibly cannot be a part of them. And they are always considered as their rival or competitive group. For example, if we talk about two cricket teams, then the Pakistani cricket team, if it matches with the Indian cricket team, then these group feelings will be with our Pakistani cricket team and the out group feelings will be towards the Indian cricket team in which we are seeing that in two binary oppositions, we are feeling these in group and out group feelings at the same time. Then we have the reference groups are the groups to which we compare ourselves and our attitudes, beliefs and behaviors. Reference groups are a kind of standard for you who try to make your behavior according to your standards. For example, if you play cricket, then the Pakistani cricket team or its players can be a reference group for you. If you want to become a good batting or a good batting batter, then the good batsmen of the Pakistani team will be a reference group for you. Then we have formal groups and informal groups. Formal groups are the groups with our designated structure, goals and rules. While informal groups are the groups that form naturally based on shared interest and social ties. Formal groups have formal positions defined, structured, well maintained and patterned. While informal groups form naturally based on natural processes, for example, family is an informal group in which you can informally perform your interactions. It is a kind of learning platform for you in which you do not feel hesitation, you do not need any special preparation to perform interactions. In fact, your behavior is spontaneous. Whereas formal organizations or formal groups are relatively well prepared, your behavior is well patterned, well maintained and you have to be prepared for it. Then we have the virtual groups. Virtual groups are the groups that interact primarily through the use of technology such as online communities or social media networks. For example, there are a lot of groups on Facebook. You are a part of them. They are also a part of your social network. So these virtual groups have become an important type of social group in today's world. In which you perform your group activities. Although they are virtual, they are very important because of your behavior. For example, in Pakistan, sports teams or political parties can be the example of in-group while the rival teams or opposing political parties can be the example of out-groups and social media groups or online forums can be the example of virtual groups.