Which sequence correctly lists the Group Process stages?

Which sequence correctly lists the Group Process stages?

• A. Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing
• B. Forming, Norming, Storming, Performing
• C. Initiation, Growth, Maturity, Decline
• D. Planning, Execution, Control, Closure

Answer: (A)

Group dynamics unfold as a progression from initial uncertainty to effective collaboration. In the forming stage, team members come together, test boundaries, and look to leadership for direction. Storming follows, where conflicts and disagreements about roles, responsibilities, and approaches surface as people push for autonomy and influence. Through working through these tensions, the group develops norms, clarifies expectations, and stabilizes—this is the norming phase. Finally, the group reaches performing, where roles are understood, collaboration is smooth, and the team coordinates effectively to achieve its goals. The sequence that mirrors this natural flow is Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing. The other sequences reflect lifecycles from domains outside group development—one describes a product lifecycle of initiation to decline, the other a typical project management process from planning to closure.

Group dynamics unfold as a progression from initial uncertainty to effective collaboration. In the forming stage, team members come together, test boundaries, and look to leadership for direction. Storming follows, where conflicts and disagreements about roles, responsibilities, and approaches surface as people push for autonomy and influence. Through working through these tensions, the group develops norms, clarifies expectations, and stabilizes—this is the norming phase. Finally, the group reaches performing, where roles are understood, collaboration is smooth, and the team coordinates effectively to achieve its goals. The sequence that mirrors this natural flow is Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing. The other sequences reflect lifecycles from domains outside group development—one describes a product lifecycle of initiation to decline, the other a typical project management process from planning to closure.