Page 1 - LN 2_Social Influence and Group Processes

Class XII

Chapter 7

Social Influences and Group Processes

Module 2

(Topic: Stages of Group Formation, Elements of Group Structure, Types of
Group)

STAGES OF GROUP FORMATION

Tuckman suggested that groups pass through five developmental sequences.
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.
✓ This stage is called the forming stage.
2. Storming Stage:
✓ 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:
✓ The storming stage is followed by another stage known as norming.
✓ Group members by this time develop norms related to group behaviour.
✓ This leads to development of a positive group identity.
4. Performing 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. Adjouring Stage:
✓ For some groups, for example, in the case of an organizing committee or a
school function, there may be another stage known as adjourning stage.
✓ In this stage, once the function is over, the group may be disbanded.

It must be stated that all groups do not always proceed from one stage to the
next in such a systematic manner.