The Norming stage of group development is best described by which characteristic?

• A. Team begins to form with clear rules
• B. Conflict escalates into power struggles
• C. Individualism dominates with little structure
• D. Performance declines

Answer: (A)

Norming centers on the group solidifying how it will work together by agreeing on norms, roles, and ways of interacting. After the initial uncertainties of forming and the conflicts of storming, members start to collaborate more smoothly because they’ve established shared rules and expectations. This coherence and mutual support create a stable environment that enables the team to coordinate effectively and move toward higher performance.

The idea that the team begins to form with clear rules reflects that shift toward established norms and structure, which is characteristic of norming. In contrast, the presence of open conflict and power struggles points to storming, while dominance of individualism with little structure suggests early, less cohesive stages, and declining performance describes a situation not typical of norming, where cohesion and functioning are on the rise.