Group DevelopmentGroups take time to develop. How long, of
course, is impossible to specify. It depends on size, frequency
of interaction, structural features, and so on. However, one of
the best-known bits of literature on groups is Tuckman's model
of group development, based on a meta-analysis of the complex
models which had previously been developed. It has the virtue of
being memorable, but the limitation of being rather rigid. In my
view, his search for the common ground has lost much of the
richness of the original models, and has imposed an over-
simplified structure which is not really true to my experience
of groups. However, Tuckman's original model has four stages;
Forming: in which the group is just coming together. It is often
characterised by shyness, uncertainty and diffidence among the
members, although extravert members may rapidly assume some kind
of leadership. Maintenance concerns predominate. Storming: in
which, having been established, there is a period of jockeying
for position, authorit