This article throws light upon the four main stages involved in the development of groups. The stages are: 1. Forming 2. Storming 3. Norming 4. Performing.
Stage # 1. Forming:
The members join to form a group. They get to know each other and find behaviours which are acceptable or unacceptable to other members of the group. Forming provides structure to the group. Purpose, composition, roles and responsibilities of members are defined at the formation stage of the group.
Stage # 2. Storming:
The purpose of coming together is determined and each other’s opinion is sought on the subject. There is uneven pattern of interaction amongst the group members. While some members of the group influence the behaviour of others as leaders of the group, others get influenced by these leaders. Some might agree on the subject while others might not.
There is, thus, lack of unity amongst members’ ideas. Different viewpoints help in reinforcing the purpose, composition, roles and responsibilities of members. They may either be strengthened or modified for smooth working of the group.
Stage # 3. Norming:
“Norms are standards of behaviour that the group or team accepts for its members. They define the boundaries between acceptable and unacceptable behaviours.” They are made to increase group performance and commitment to each other. The members try to understand their roles vis-a-vis those of others and develop unity of actions. In some cases, norms may prove to be counter-productive. This happens when people observe strict adherence to norms. It stifles their creativity to produce more than what the group norms determine.
Stage # 4. Performing:
The group finally works on the goal for which it is formed. Members interact, perform their assigned roles and collectively work towards group goals.