The Five Stages

Tuckman's five stage theory was discussed in class and we were encouraged to use this model in our endeavors as a group while synthesizing our individual interviews. The first stage is pretty simple and straight forward because that is the step we take in every new relationship and that is getting to know each other, and "breaking the ice" which is referred to as the forming stage. This is where ideas and goals begin to formulate. The second stage is the "storming" stage where roles have been assigned and a lot of risks are being taken between the group in order to test limits and draw boundaries. The third stage is "norming" is reached after the group has successfully passed stage 2 thanks to having a good leader, and the fact that group members are getting along. In this stage every member is comfortable with their role, and "group cohesiveness" which involves are members being on the same page, and a sense of belonging. The fourth stage is "performing" where the problems have been converted into resolutions due to members voicing their opinion and being comfortable discussing with each other and resolving conflicts together. The final stage is "adjourning" in which the desired goals have been reached and all tasks have been accomplished. Due to the limits placed on groups the "adjourning" stage is extremely important. However if this process is not successful it can damage the relationship between group members and thus causing chaos in the workplace.