What characterizes the storming stage of group development?

The storming stage of group development is characterized by members facing conflicts as they assert their opinions and challenge one another. This phase often follows the initial forming stage, where group members are polite and avoid conflict. As individuals begin to express their thoughts and ideas more freely, differing opinions can lead to disagreements and tension.

This conflict is essential for developing a group's dynamic and clarifying roles, as members must negotiate and navigate differing priorities and perspectives. The productive resolution of these conflicts ultimately leads to stronger relationships and a more cohesive team moving into subsequent stages of development, such as norming and performing.

The other options pertain to different stages of group development. Establishing ground rules typically happens during the forming stage, where norms and expectations are defined. Working towards goals is a hallmark of the performing stage, where the team has successfully navigated the storming and norming stages. Celebrating achievements tends to occur at the end of the project or at significant milestones, rather than being a characteristic of the storming phase.