Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) Practice Test

What is the first stage in Thompson's Change Theory?

1. Performing

2. Storming

3. Norming

4. Forming

The correct answer is: Forming

The first stage in Thompson's Change Theory is the Forming stage. This initial phase is characterized by the coming together of a group or team. During this stage, the focus is primarily on orientation and gathering information. Members of the group are often polite and tentative as they get to know one another and begin to understand the group's purpose, objectives, and the roles they may play within it. In the Forming stage, team members are generally not fully engaged or committed, as they may still be assessing their environment and each other. Trust and relationships are built over time, but in this beginning phase, communication is cautious, as individuals seek to understand dynamics and establish the groundwork for future collaboration. This stage sets the foundation for teams to progress into the subsequent stages of development, where deeper interactions and more significant contributions occur. Understanding the Forming stage is crucial for leaders and managers in healthcare settings as it enables them to facilitate a smooth transition into more productive phases of group development and ultimately enhances team performance.