An assessment of group trajectories: Analyzing developmental breakpoints

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Abstract
This research investigated the nature of breakpoints in trajectories of group development, as outlined in Poole's Multiple Sequence Model of group development. After clarifying breakpoints as they exist in group interaction, the authors analyzed the utility of the concept of breakpoints as they function to signal groups to pursue new trajectories of development. An examination of group interaction revealed five tentative conclusions: (1) Trajectories of group development require maintenance through the repeated use of routing statements; (2) Trajectories are typically introduced and maintained by prospective routing statements; (3) Group development often follows a trial‐and‐error pattern of issue introduction which functions to affirm the existence of a developmental trajectory; (4) Agenda‐setting statements can lead to breakpoints if properly timed; and (5) Procedural statements may constitute breakpoints when associated with a substantive issue relevant to the group's task. Limitations of this study, as well as the potential fruitfulness of conceptualizing breakpoints in group development, are also discussed.