TUCKMAN’S MODEL 9 Tuckman’s Model Course code: Course Name ✓ Solved

TUCKMAN’S MODEL 9 Tuckman’s Model Course code: Course Name

Tuckman’s model is a group development model formed and published by Dr. Bruce Tuckman in 1965. The model explains the different stages in team development and general team behavior (Kobiruzzaman, 2021). In his theory, Dr. Tuckman explains that as a team develops, team members gain maturity and ability to perform group work which enhances a relationship among team members.

It leads to change in leadership style of the team leader as directing styles, coaching and delegation of duties change. Change of leadership style can lead to detachment of the team leader from the group as he might feel offended or overwhelmed by his roles (Kobiruzzaman, 2021). The team can then produce a new successor leader. The previous leader can move on to form a new team. The model is aimed at explaining how groups develop.

It helps train people on how to perform in group work hence making groups achieve their goals. Tuckman’s model is significant as it recognizes that teams do not arise fully formed but require modeling to achieve a dream team. Through his theory, Dr. Bruce Tuckman explains the different stages of group development which include forming, storming, norming, performing and adjourning.

ADVANTAGES OF TUCKMAN MODEL

The model clarifies extensively about each stage of group development. Dr. Tuckman explains in depth about how each stage is achieved (Kobiruzzaman, 2021). This gives a team leader the general knowledge on how to handle team members through each stage. The team leader understands what to expect from team members in each stage for a successful group development.

The model helps leaders to learn about primary and secondary tension and how to solve them. This is tension that comes up during group development which may disappear in a short while or may last over long periods of time. Such tension can be caused by addition of new team members and change in group rules (Kobiruzzaman, 2021). Through Tuckman’s model, a team leader understands how to deal with such tensions to avoid conflicts in the group. Tuckman’s model helps strengthen the relationship between group members and the team leader.

Through the model, all group participants learn to accommodate each other by learning basic problem-solving skills which leads to a higher team productivity.

DISADVANTAGES OF TUCKMAN MODEL

The model contains five basic and important stages that are hard to maintain each at a go. Most of the time, team leaders end up mixing up or skipping some stages of team development. Each stage has different instructions to be followed to achieve effective communication within the group (Kobiruzzaman, 2021). The theory would have been better if it didn’t have stages that should be systematically followed.

The model does not offer a specific solution to solve group conflicts. The model only gives suggestions and speculations about reducing group conflicts and misunderstanding. It does not include information of what would be the result if the storming stage is not finalized. This leaves a loophole for further discussion of group development. Tuckman’s model does not discuss why the group changes over time.

The model only gives information of group change in each stage without stating reasons for change. This leads to limited information for the team leader during group development. It may lead to poor team development or developing an unsuccessful team.

Stages of Team Development

Forming Stage

Tuckman’s first stage of team development is called the forming stage. In this stage, team members introduce themselves and are in the getting-to-know-you stage. Typically in the forming stage, minimal if any work is completed. In addition to spending time socializing, individuals start gathering information as to which role or roles they will play and what will be expected of them. Team members are concerned with whom will be leading the team and what the team leader has to offer. This stage is one in which there is significant uncertainty among the individual team members. If team goals are clearly defined, and trust is built in the forming stage, the team’s foundation will be solid.

Storming Stage

As more information becomes available and individuals settle into their respective roles – and begin to get comfortable with one another - the team can begin to move to the next stage of the process. In the second stage of team development – the storming stage – individuals begin to disagree and push other members’ boundaries. Individuals may become less polite and have disagreements, and hostilities can arise. Additionally, team members may form subgroups or cliques, and jockey for position, and dysfunction can ensue.

Conflicts need to be resolved and team members need to respect individual differences so that the team can progress to the next stage. It can be helpful – while in the storming stage – to restate the team’s objectives so that individuals refocus their energies for the greater good.

Norming Stage

Once the team reduces most conflicts, they enter the next stage of team development, the norming stage. In this stage, conflicts are further resolved, and individuals demonstrate respect for their teammates. Teams begin to work together, support each other, and make progress toward their mutual goals. Team members ask for help, offer assistance and may find themselves enjoying being a part of the team.

Performing Stage

In the performing stage of team development, agreement and cooperation have been well-established. The team is mature, organized, and well-functioning. Team members are confident, motivated, and familiar with their project and feel satisfied with the team’s progress. They are aware of their own and other members’ strengths and weaknesses.

Adjourning Stage

In 1977, Tuckman added a fifth stage called adjourning. Once a project ends, the team disbands. This is also known as mourning because members have grown close and feel a loss now that the experience is over. The emphasis is on wrapping up final tasks and documenting the efforts and results. Team members often find it difficult to separate from members they have formed close bonds with.

CONCLUSION

Tuckman’s model of group development gives basic knowledge of group development. Through the five stages, team leaders understand better the requirements of developing a successful team. They learn about basic problem-solving skills and how to manage group conflict. It can be concluded that through this model, team leaders can build successful teams and increase the productivity of their teams.

References

  • Kobiruzzaman, M. M. (2021, January 30). Tuckman’s Model Five Stages of Group or Team Development Theory . Educational Website for Online Learning.

  • The Mind Tools Content Team. (n.d.). Retrieved from MindTools.

  • Priestley, D. (n.d.). Forming, Storming, Norming and Performing, at Venture Team Building.