PsychologySocial Influence and Group Processes

Arrange the following developments in a newly formed group in the ord…

Arrange the following developments in a newly formed group in the order in which they usually occur:

(A) A hierarchy of leadership develops in the group
(B) Members conflict over who is to control the group and its resources
(C) Members develop norms related to group behaviour
(D) A positive group identity develops

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Answer & explanation

Correct answer: option 2

The correct answer is Option (2) → B, A, C, D

(B) Members conflict over who is to control the group and its resources — First. Conflict over control and resources is the heart of storming, so it comes first here.

(A) A hierarchy of leadership develops in the group — Second. A hierarchy of leadership develops only when the storming stage is complete, so it follows the conflict.

(C) Members develop norms related to group behaviour — Third. Norms develop in the norming stage, which follows storming.

(D) A positive group identity develops — Fourth. A positive group identity is the result of developing norms, so it comes after them.

NCERT (2026-27): “Stages of Group Formation …
• 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.”