The Five Stages of group development identified by Tuckman & Jensen, 1977 are

• A. Forming, Storming, Norming, Mourning, Performing
• B. Forming, Storming, Performing, Norming, Mourning
• C. Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, Mourning
• D. Forming, Norming, Storming, Performing, Mourning

Answer: (C)

Groups move through stages where relationships, roles, and norms take shape. In the extended model by Tuckman and Jensen, the sequence is Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, Mourning.

Forming is the initial settling-in phase: members meet, test the waters, and look to the leader for direction. Storming follows as individuals push against boundaries, voice conflicts, and jockey for influence. Norming then brings coherence: norms, shared expectations, and clear roles emerge, reducing friction. Performing is where the group operates smoothly and efficiently, coordinating to achieve goals. Mourning (the ending phase) occurs as the task concludes and the group disbands, with reflection and closure.

This order makes sense because each stage builds on what came before: you first establish purpose and relationships, then navigate conflicts, create a working agreement, function productively, and finally conclude. In real life, groups may cycle through stages or revisit earlier ones, but this framework helps guide how to support a team at each phase.