Arrange the following features of a developing group in the order in…

Arrange the following features of a developing group in the order in which they usually appear:

(A) A clear vision as to how to achieve the group goal
(B) Excitement as well as apprehensions among members
(C) The group moves towards achieving the group goal
(D) Conflict about how the target of the group is to be achieved

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Answer & explanation

Correct answer: option 3

The correct answer is Option (3) → B, D, A, C

(B) Excitement as well as apprehensions among members — First. Excitement mixed with apprehension marks the forming stage, when members first meet.

(D) Conflict about how the target of the group is to be achieved — Second. Conflict about how to reach the target belongs to storming, the second stage.

(A) A clear vision as to how to achieve the group goal — Third. A clear vision of how to reach the goal develops when storming is complete, so it follows the conflict.

(C) The group moves towards achieving the group goal — Fourth. Moving towards the goal is the performing stage, which comes after these.

NCERT (2026-27): “Stages of Group Formation …
• When group members first meet, there is a great deal of uncertainty about the group, the goal, and how it is to be achieved. People try to know each other and assess whether they will fit in. There is excitement as well as apprehensions. This stage is called the forming stage.”

“• Often, after this stage, there is a stage of intragroup conflict which is referred to as storming. In this stage, there is conflict among members about how the target of the group is to be achieved, who is to control the group and its resources, and who is to perform what task. When this stage is complete, some sort of hierarchy of leadership in the group develops and a clear vision as to how to achieve the group goal.”

“• The storming stage is followed by another stage known as norming. Group members by this time develop norms related to group behaviour. This leads to development of a positive group identity.”

“• The fourth stage is performing. By this time, the structure of the group has evolved and is accepted by group members. The group moves towards achieving the group goal. …”