Four Stages of Group Development And Its Functions

A group consists of people who share a unifying relationship. People form groups in order to work effectively to achieve a sated objective. In this essay, we are primarily concerned with group development and the role of diversity in how a group functions. Researchers have put forward various models, such as Kurt Lewin's Individual Change Process, Tuckman’s Stages Model, Tubb’s Systems, and Poole's multiple-sequences model. Diversity refers to how group members differ as for as characteristics like age, gender, culture, education etc are concerned. For the purpose of this essay, we will review Tuckman’s Stages Model and apply it to critically analyze my experiences as a member of various groups. 

Tuckman’s Stages Model:

In 1960s, Tuckman reviewed many studies related to group development and based on his findings came forward with his own development model which consisted of four stages: forming, storming, norming, and performing. He suggested that if a team is to grow and accomplish its objectives successfully, it has to go through these stages.

Forming:

This is the first stage of group development and members get to know each other. They may identify opportunities and challenges and decide on ways to overcome them. Objectives of the group are set in this stage. During this stage, some group members may seem uninvolved and uncommitted toward the group cause and may create hurdles in the way of group. The group will be able to work effectively if they are informed of the stages of group development as this will help them to understand the dynamics of group better. 

Storming:

In this stage, group members put forward various ideas and try hard that their ideas be considered. They brainstorm on what issues they need to work on and decide on ways to solve those issues.  Conflict may arise as each team member tries to get its ideas and perspectives considered which may make some members feel uncomfortable during this stage. This stage is very critical and some members may even raise questions on the goals of the group.

Norming:   

This stage is characterized by mutual understanding and trust among the group members. Group members become more flexible and change their work habits so that the group members are able to work in harmony. As the group reaches this stage, it is well-aware of the project at hand and is motivated to work on it together.  

Performing:

This is a very difficult stage to reach as only high-performing teams make it to this stage. By the time a group reaches this stage, group members will have understood each other so much so they would have found ways to accomplish tasks smoothly without any supervision. Even the leader does not command the group but acts in a participative style.

A fifth stage, adjourning, was also added after stages were revisited. In this stage, group members complete the task and the group disbands.

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