Canadian Health Information Management Association Practice Exam

Which stage in group development is characterized by uncertainty?

1. Forming

2. Norming

3. Performing

4. Storming

The correct answer is: Forming

The stage characterized by uncertainty in group development is the forming stage. During this initial phase, group members come together for the first time and often experience a lack of clarity regarding their roles, responsibilities, and the group's purpose. Because the team is just beginning to build relationships, individuals may feel hesitant and unsure about how to interact with one another. This uncertainty is a natural part of the group's development as members strive to understand their environment, establish boundaries, and define their objectives. In contrast, during the norming stage, team members begin to resolve conflicts and establish norms and protocols for working together, reducing uncertainty. In the performing stage, the group reaches optimal functioning, demonstrating confidence and solid collaboration. The storming stage is marked by conflicts as group members express their differing opinions and work through challenges, which, while chaotic, is often a necessary part of building stronger relationships and clarity within the group. The forming stage, however, is specifically about initial confusion and uncertainty as the group seeks to establish itself.