Introduction
BuddyBoss does not offer a built-in option to hide subgroups on the main Member Directory. However, you can use Group Types and their permission settings as a workaround to control which groups appear. This guide explains how to categorize subgroups into a custom Group Type and then restrict visibility so they won’t show in the directory.
Use Group Types to Hide Subgroups
Create a Custom Group Type
- In WordPress admin, go to BuddyBoss Dashboard > Groups > Group Types.
- Click Add New Group Type, give it a name (e.g., “Hidden Subgroups”), and save.
Assign Subgroups to Your Custom Type
- Navigate to Groups > All Groups.
- For each subgroup you want to hide, click Edit, go to the Group Types tab, and check Hidden Subgroups.
- Click Update.
Restrict Visibility via Permissions
- Go back to BuddyBoss Dashboard > Groups > Settings > Group Types.
- Locate Hidden Subgroups and expand its Permissions settings.
- Uncheck Show in Member Directory (or similar option) to prevent any group of this type from appearing.
- Click Save Changes.
Your designated subgroups will no longer display in the Member Directory, while all other groups remain visible.
Troubleshooting and FAQs
Q: I don’t see the “Show in Member Directory” option—what now?
A: Ensure you’re running BuddyBoss Platform v1.9.0 or later. Clear any caching after saving permissions, then reload the directory.
Q: How can I reverse this change?
A: Return to Group Types > Settings, re-enable Show in Member Directory for your custom type, save, and the subgroups reappear.
Q: I want a true “hide subgroups” feature—what should I do?
A: Submit a feature request on the BuddyBoss Roadmap: go to buddyboss.com/roadmap and click + Submit Idea to suggest an enhancement.
Q: Will this workaround affect performance?
A: No. It only modifies how groups are queried for the directory view without adding significant overhead.