What is a key feature of the storming stage in group development?

The storming stage is characterized by conflict and the challenge of ideas among group members. During this phase, individuals begin to assert their opinions and positions, leading to disagreements that can surface as personal conflicts or differing viewpoints regarding tasks and goals. This stage is crucial for the development of the group because it allows members to express their thoughts openly, confront one another's ideas, and navigate the complexities of interpersonal dynamics.

The conflict that arises during the storming phase is essential for the group’s growth, as it sets the stage for establishing clearer roles, responsibilities, and working methods. Navigating through this stage helps in forming stronger bonds and creates a framework for collaboration, ultimately leading to a more effective and cohesive team in subsequent stages.

The other options relate to different stages of group development. Establishing norms typically occurs during the norming stage when members start to establish rules and expectations. Performing tasks effectively is associated with the performing stage, where the group has moved past conflicts and begun functioning as a well-oiled unit. Building relationships may happen in the forming stage when group members are getting to know each other. Therefore, recognizing that the conflict and challenge of ideas define the storming stage is key to understanding group dynamics in a developmental context.