Which sequence correctly lists the phases of group development?

• A. Storming - Forming - Norming - Performing
• B. Forming - Norming - Storming - Performing
• C. Forming - Storming - Norming - Performing
• D. Forming - Storming - Performing - Norming

Answer: (C)

Groups go through a progression as they come together and start to work. The order is Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing. In Forming, members get to know each other and set initial goals, but roles and procedures are not yet clear. In Storming, conflicts and power dynamics emerge as people test boundaries and influence. In Norming, the group establishes shared norms, clarifies responsibilities, and builds trust. In Performing, the team collaborates smoothly and effectively toward its goals. This sequence makes sense because each stage depends on what came before: you need a basic structure first, then navigate conflicts, then agree on norms, and only then operate at a high level of performance. Sequences that jump to high performance before norms exist or reorder the early stages don’t reflect how groups typically develop.