Classification and Interpretation of the Five Stages of Group Development

Organizational Behavior in Health Care
Name
Institution
Date
Organizational Behavior in Health Care
Groups develop through different stages. Even though people work together for the same purpose, groups experience certain dynamisms to achieve the set objectives. These dynamic developments can be described in five stages. The first stage of group development is the forming stage; during this process, boundaries are formed as the members begin to determine the task to achieve the group's objectives. Group members look upon the group leader to guide them. Group members strive to feel safe and the need to belong to the group (Borkowski, 2009).
The major task in this stage is orientation. Members start becoming familiar with the group norms. The outcome in this stage includes gaining a clear understanding of the groups' purpose, knowing the leaders and their roles, understand the general group rules and regulations. To move from this stage to the next one, members need to give up their fears to become more comfortable with each other. This requires members to understand their purpose for joining the group (Borkowski, 2009).
The second stage of group development, is storming; this stage is characterized by high emotions as members try to identify themselves with the group. There are a lot of conflicts and competition. Conflict is inevitable because people have different views of how to perform tasks (Borkowski, 2009). Even though conflict may not surface at times but they will exist. Due to discomfort, some group members may become passive while others dominate the group. To progress to the next stage, members need to have solved all the existing differences. The most important skill is developing the ability to listen and be patient (Borkowski, 2009).
The third stage of group development is storming, ...