Tuckman believes there are five main stages of communication within group development, as they come together and start to operate.
Stage 1:
Stage 1 is known as forming. The behaviour of each individual is driven by a desire to be accepted by the other group members. Conflict and controversial topics are avoided and team members focus on tasks at hand. Individuals are also gathering information and impressions about eachother. Although this is a comfortable stage to be in, the avoidance of conflict means not a lot of work gets done.
Stage 2:
The next stage is known as “storming”. In this stage important issues start to be addressed. Some peoples patience will break early and minor confrontations arise that are quickly dealt with or glasses over. Depending on the culture of the organisation and individuals the conflict will be more or less supressed but nevertheless it will still be there.
Stage 3:
As stage 2 evolves, the “rules of engagement” for the group become established and the scope of the groups’ tasks, or responsibilities are clear and agreed. After the arguments, they now have a better understanding of eachother and are able to appreciate each others skills and experience. They listen, appreciate, and support each other. However, individuals have to work hard to keep this stage.
Stage 4:
Stage 4 is known as performing. Not all groups reach this stage as its characterised by a state of interpendence and flexibility. Everyone is equally task-orientated, and this high degree of comfort means that all the energy of the group can be directed towards the task in hand.
Stage 5:
Tuckman only added this final stage after 10 year. He named it the “adjourning” stage. This stage is about completion and disengagement, both from the tasks and the group members. Individuals will be proud of having achieved much and glad to have been part