How does Tuckman’s stage model help you to understand the formation of groups?
Solution
Groups usually go through different stages of formation, conflict, stabilisation, performance, and dismissal. Tuckman's stage model suggested that groups pass through five developmental sequences which are forming, storming, norming, performing and adjourning.
1. Forming stage :- When group members first meet, there is a great deal of uncertainty about the group, the goal, and how it is to be achieved. People try to know each other and assess whether they will fit in. There is excitement as well as apprehensions.
2. Storming stage :- It is a stage of intragroup conflict which is referred to as storming. In this stage, there is conflict among members about how the target of the group is to be achieved, who is to control the group and its resources, and who is to perform what task. When this stage is complete, some sort of hierarchy of leadership in the group develops and a clear vision as to how to achieve the group goal.
3. Norming stage :- This storming stage is followed by norming. Group members by this time develop norms related to group behaviour. This leads to development of a positive group identity.
4. Performing stage :- It is the fourth stage. By this time, the structure of the group has evolved and is accepted by group members. The group moves towards achieving the group goal. For some groups, this may be the last stage of group development.
5. Adjourning stage :- For some groups, for example, in the case of an organising committee for a school function, there may be last stage and group comes to an end. In this stage, once the function is over, the group may be disbanded.
