Effective communication in Tuckman's stages of group development

Communications Psychology

For groups to operate effectively, communication is essential. In basic terms, effective group communication is critical for purposes of enhancing sharing of information, consensus building as well as plan implementation. This discussion will, amongst other things, concern itself with communication behavior in groups.

How Groups Form

It is important to note that when it comes to "how" groups form, one of the most conclusive frameworks explaining the same was formulated by Bruce Tuckman. According to this framework, a number of steps precede group formation. In this regard, it can be noted that when first established, group performance may not be optimal. Hence groups go through several developmental stages as they seek to achieve an optimal level of effectiveness and productivity.

Why Groups Form

To begin with, based on the propinquity theory, groups are likely to form when we have individuals working or living in close proximity with one another (Gupta, 2009). Further, we have the balance theory which in seeking to explain why groups form postulates that groups form when individuals possess similar goals, values or attitudes (Gupta, 2009). Yet another theory that seeks to explain why groups form is the exchange theory. According to this theory, group formation is informed by the reward-cost outcomes accruing from the formation of the group (Gupta, 2009). Synergy is yet another reason for group formation. In this case, a group is likely to perform better than individuals working in isolation.

Stages in Group Formation

According to Martin (2005), the various stages involved in the formation of groups are "forming, storming, norming, performing and adjourning." The development of working relations between team members characterizes the forming stage. In this stage, team building is sparked and acceptable behavior limits are established through experimentation. Group and individual member tasks are agreed upon at this stage. The emergence of differences of opinion and interpersonal conflicts characterize the storming stage. It is important to note that there is a real risk of the group collapsing at this point if there is no consensus on shared goals. Next is the norming stage. Here, the team agrees on most of the goals and conflict resolution modalities. Each member understands group expectations and it is at this stage where both informal and formal procedures are articulated so as to govern the workings of the group. In the performing stage, the group has its sights set on the accomplishment of its goals. Here, divergent views are permitted provided they are presented through acceptable means. In the adjourning phase, the team is disbanded on completion of the task.

Communication is critical in the various phases of group performance. To begin with, communication fosters unity. This is particularly the case in the storming stage where divergent views are threatening to tear the group apart. Communication also helps in consensus building. In this case, effective communication is critical for members to agree on a wide range of proposals. Without effective communication, the group can be stuck between the storming and the norming stages. Further, communication helps in relation building particularly during the early phases of group formation.

Why Groups Disintegrate

Groups disintegrate for a variety of reasons. To begin with, groups could disintegrate as a result of feuds and disagreements. This can take place during the storming stage where differences of opinion and interpersonal conflicts are rather common. Groups could also disintegrate due to lack of commitment on the part of members i.e. when group members stop attending meetings. The disintegration of groups could also be brought about by a leadership vacuum. In this case, the group may lack a clear leader or have a leader who does not connect with group members. Further, group disintegration could be occasioned by lack of organizational or management commitment or support. Support in this case could be financial or otherwise.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it can be noted that the success of a group as far as the accomplishment of its goals is concerned is largely hinged on both the collective commitment of members as well as effective communication. Further, given that most groups disintegrate during the storming stage as a result of lack of consensus on divergent ideas, the relevance of tolerance in group development cannot be overstated.