Which stage of team development is characterized by establishing trust and understanding among members?

The stage of team development characterized by establishing trust and understanding among members is the norming stage. During this phase, team members begin to work more cohesively, building relationships and developing a sense of camaraderie. They start to resolve conflicts and clarify team roles, which leads to a more collaborative environment. At this point, team members are more open to sharing ideas and feedback, contributing to a stable team dynamic.

This trust and understanding are crucial as they allow the team to focus on collaborative problem-solving and creativity, both important elements for achieving project goals. By fostering a supportive atmosphere, the team can better navigate challenges together and enhance overall performance moving forward. This contrasts with the other stages where the dynamics are either forming, experiencing conflict, or concluding the project, which do not emphasize the same level of trust and cooperation found in the norming stage.