Part I: Group Development
According to the text, there are five stages of team development and they break down as follows: * Forming stage- Members are primarily concerned with getting to know each other and what is considered acceptable behavior, in determining the real task of the team, and in defining group rules. * Storming stage- This is a period of high emotionality and tension in the group. Cliques may form as individuals compete to impose their preferences and outside demands such as premature performance expectations may create uncomfortable pressures. However, membership expectations tend to be clarified and attention shifts toward obstacles that stand in the way of team goals in this process. The key is that individuals begin to understand each other’s personalities and efforts are made to satisfy both individual as well as group needs. * Norming stage- Sometimes called initial integration, this is the point where the group comes together as a coordinated unit. Relationships are being built and the group actively seeks to keep the harmony going. * Performing stage- Sometimes called total integration, this stage marks the emergence of a mature, organized, and well-functioning team. Relationships have matured and team members are now able to deal with complex tasks and handle internal disagreements in creative ways. * Adjourning stage- This is where the well integrated team now disbands if needed upon the successful completion of their project or task.
It is difficult to determine exactly which stage of team development Christine’s group is at and perhaps this is the key to all of the group’s problems. With her project due in a week, the group should clearly be in the performing stage where everyone knows what their roles are and the members are working cohesively to achieve their goals and address issues as they arise.