Final answer:
Informal groups can emerge when formal groups do not meet individual needs, providing a space for personal connection and flexible decision-making. They differ from formal groups, which have structured leadership, and reflect a trend in civic engagement towards smaller, personalized groups within larger organizations.
Step-by-step explanation:
True, informal groups are often created when the needs of individuals are not being met by any formal group. This could happen for a multitude of reasons, such as the lack of formal groups that address specific personal interests, ideological beliefs, or social needs. Informal groups often provide a platform for personal connections and allow for more flexible decision-making processes, wherein decisions about activities and rules are made through an informal consensus among members. These groups contrast with formal groups, which typically have clearly defined roles and responsibilities, as well as a chain of command. In informal settings, such as a gathering of friends, leadership tends to emerge naturally without formal election or appointment, and the group remains acephalous with decisions being made collectively.