Stages of Group Development

Stages of Group Development

• Groups undergo different stages as they evolve.

  • Forming: Members are introduced and oriented to the group's purpose.

  • Storming: Members communicate directly, getting to know each other and experiencing conflict.

  • Norming: A sense of cohesiveness and processes for working together develop.

  • Performing: The group acts on its purpose according to established norms.

  • Adjourning: The group disbands after achieving its goals.

Importance of Studying Group Development

• Observing stages and activities within groups can reveal how members engage at various stages.

• Analyze conflict resolution methods within groups.

• Investigate the development and adherence to norms.

• Understand how groups finalize and terminate their activities.

• Consider aspects of in-group participation and dynamics.

Self-Disclosure in Groups

• Social Penetration Theory: Highlights the necessity of self-disclosure to gain deeper understanding of others.

  • Self-disclosure helps overcome barriers of not knowing others, fostering understanding and trust.

  • Reciprocity is expected in self-disclosure, where members reveal personal information to each other.

  • Risks include disclosing too much too early or insufficient disclosure.

• Relevant stages: Forming and Storming.

Conflict in Groups

• Definition: Conflict represents differing opinions within the group regarding:

  • Values

  • Norms

  • Informational assessments

  • Identifying problems and solutions

• Occurs primarily in the Storming phase.

• Question: Is conflict beneficial or detrimental to group dynamics?

Benefits of Conflict

• Encourages openness and information sharing.

• Raises awareness of diverging views.

• Enhances consideration of multiple perspectives.

• Conflict should not be viewed negatively; it can promote healthy discussions.

Dangers of Avoiding Conflict

• Lack of conflict can hinder group growth, leading to division and alienation.

  • Groups may settle into factions with a risk of loss for some members.

  • Stages involved:

    • Orientation

    • Conflict

    • Faction formation

    • Reinforcement or resolution

Examining Group Tracks and Breakpoints

• Poole's Stages: Address various group dynamics and conflict scenarios.

  • Topic: Discussion focus.

  • Relation: Internal group dynamics.

  • Breakpoints: Moments to pause, whether due to time constraints or conflict escalation.

Groupthink Phenomenon

• Definition: A scenario where unanimous thinking occurs, often leading to a lack of critical evaluation of alternatives.

  • Arises from a lack of conflict or false consensus on overcoming challenges.

  • Key problematic aspects of groupthink need to be examined.

Re-evaluating Groupthink and Consensus

• Tubb’s Stages: Describes the conflict progression:

  • Orientation

  • Conflict

  • Resolution

  • Dissolution

• Consensus: Its significance needs to be carefully assessed; is it an end goal or merely a stage?

Group Dissolution and Adjournment

• Necessary considerations for concluding group activities include:

  • Ensuring all members exit with aligned perceptions.

  • Striving for amicable conclusions.

  • Planning for possible future group formations or reconvening.

  • Sharing essential information post-group activities.

  • Assessing implications of incorporating new members into existing groups.