Group forming

• stages to the formation of a group:

  1. forming
  2. storming
  3. norming
  4. performing
• Stage 1: Forming

  • in which group members get to know each other
  • during this stage the leader (coach) tells the group what to do and sets out goals
• stage 2: storming

  • in which group members argue and compete with each other and different types of leaders emerge
  • the coach must drive the team through this stage
  • cliques form at this stage and there may be power struggles
  • the team must be focused on its goal to avoid distractions from emotional issues
• stage 3: norming

  • in which group members agree how to work together and rules/goals are developed with acceptable behaviour defined
  • leaders emerge and take responsibility and the coach starts to step back
  • decisions are made through group agreement and smaller decisions to groups within
• stage 4: performing

  • in which the group works as a unit, group members are interdependent and the most skilful or experienced members make decisions independently
  • focused on achieving the goals
  • little or no interference from the coach, the coach becomes a consultant
  • disagreements are handled positively and the team makes the changes required