Managing External Relations - Disaster Management Center ...

Group Cycles
Chapter 2
Most groups go through fairly predictable phases in their work together. These phases or cycles
exist to some degree even in emergency situations and must be understood and accommodated.
The acceptance of these phases makes it easier to develop your workplan and to recognise problems.
The phases may include:
Social interaction — Pleasantries are exchanged which may be unrelated to the
group’s main purpose but serve to unify members.
Information seeking — The group answers the questions related to its activities, such
as reviewing the agenda or workplan.
Establishing structures — The group pursues activities to accomplish its objectives.
Certain group members may assume control, so it is best to encourage exchange of
roles, such as discussion leader or note taker, etc.
Constructive work — If the previous three areas are not well covered, undertaking
the core activities may be difficult. Some people may have hidden agendas, feel
alienated or not understand what is going on, especially in the chaotic context of
emergency operations.
Completion — A summary or decision on next steps gives a feeling of closure and
emphasises a feeling of forward motion or progress on the problems at hand.
Some stages of group development occur over many meetings, and some have characteristics
that facilitators should be aware of in these stages. They are as follows:
Forming — Members try to find their place within the group. There may be suspicion
and anxiety resulting in cautious and restrained participation. People may have preconceived
notions about others in the group. Only minimal work may be accomplished.
Storming — Members try to establish individuality. Defensiveness and competition
may surface resulting in resistance to group tasks. Sub-groups may form in support of
certain positions.
Norming — Members focus more energy on the group’s objectives. They begin
to exhibit more co-operation and increasingly share their feelings and thoughts.
Group cohesiveness is achieved. Moderate amounts of work are accomplished.
Performing — Members have insights into personal and interpersonal processes.
Conflicts and problems are more easily resolved. Significant work is accomplished.
Adjourning — Members exhibit behaviours related to disengagement from the group,
recognising participation and achievement and saying good-bye to each other.
Do the above cycles and stages generally match your experiences with
working in groups? How might they differ or change in emergencies?
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