Forming, Storming, Norming, and Performing

Linear theories propose that groups go through a series of stages as they develop. Each stage
has its own unique challenges, and as the group deals with these challenges it progresses to
other stages. You must recognize the different stages to help teams work together and grow
stronger as they deal with different issues.

Instructions

1. Think of an athletic team or a group that you were a member of. Consider your experiences
in this group and how the group developed over time.
2. In the space provided, describe what each of the stages of group formation was like for your
team or group. (If your group skipped one or more of the states, indicate this also.)
3. How does your experience match up with the four stages of group formation?

Stages of Group Formation

1. Forming

My team stayed positive and focused, from putting together a new routine to start the season.
Which is by far the most exciting part of the season.

2. Storming

In the middle of the season it is normal for a team to not always fire on all cylinders. The closer
competition comes the more conflicts that arise.

3. Norming

The team comes together and realizes that by staying positive they can do this and reach their
goal.

4. Performing

This is the chance for the team to prove that everything they practiced and preached they can
go out and accomplish their goals.

From R.S. Weinberg and D. Gould, 2019, Foundations of Sport 1

and Exercise Psychology Web Study Guide, 7E (Champaign, IL:
Human Kinetics).