During the working stage, group members are concerned about being which of the following?

• A. Top and bottom
• B. Near and far
• C. In and out
• D. A and B

Answer: (B)

In the working stage, the focus is on the real interpersonal work of the group—members test trust, deepen self-disclosure, and navigate how they relate to one another. This is where concerns about how close or distant they feel with others come to the forefront. Being near or far captures this tension: some participants seek greater emotional closeness, sharing more and offering feedback, while others protect themselves with more distance to feel safe. This negotiation of closeness supports honest communication, collaboration, and growth as a group works through its tasks. Power dynamics (top and bottom) or inclusion/exclusion (in and out) can surface, but the hallmark in this phase is the movement toward or away from closeness with fellow members.