What is the final stage of Tuckman's group development model?

The final stage of Tuckman's group development model is adjourning. This stage is significant because it represents the conclusion of the group's activities and the dissolution of the group itself after achieving its purpose. In this phase, members may reflect on their experiences, assess the accomplishments or outcomes of the group, and often go through a process of closure. It can be an emotional time, as group members may feel a sense of loss once their collaboration ends. Recognizing and addressing these feelings can contribute to positive group dynamics, even as the group disbands.

The other stages—forming, storming, norming, and performing—occur before adjourning and involve the various processes that groups go through as they start, develop, become productive, and create cohesion before eventually reaching the closure of their project or purpose. These earlier stages help in establishing the groundwork and functionality of a group, but adjourning specifically addresses the completion and disbandment of the group.