Which is the sequence of the stages of group development according to Tuckman?

• A. Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, Adjourning.
• B. Forming, Norming, Storming, Adjourning, Performing.
• C. Initiating, Conflict, Cohesion, Maturation, Closure.
• D. Opening, Rallying, Structuring, Executing, Ending.

Answer: (A)

The sequence tested reflects how groups typically evolve from initial formation to completion. In the forming stage, members meet and start to understand the task, personalities, and boundaries, often behaving cautiously and politely as they establish how they’ll work together. Next, the storming stage appears as conflicts and power struggles surface as people push for their ideas, clarify roles, and challenge leadership. This tension is a normal step that helps the group define how it will operate. After these clashes, the norming stage emerges, where members begin to cooperate, establish shared norms, and align on goals and ways of working. With clearer roles and stronger cohesion, the group moves into performing, operating smoothly and productively to achieve its objectives. Finally, adjourning marks the end of the project or group life, with closure, reflection, and emotional processing as the group disbands.

This order—forming, storming, norming, performing, adjourning—is the established progression Tuckman proposed, later adding adjourning to cover termination. The other options mix up stages or use terms not part of Tuckman’s model, so they don’t fit the recognized sequence.