Which stages focus on encouraging positive behavior in teams?

The stages of team development, particularly the Norming and Performing stages, emphasize fostering positive behavior within the team.

During the Norming stage, team members begin to establish a cohesive bond, working collaboratively and resolving any conflicts that may have arisen during the previous Storming phase. This stage is characterized by a sense of unity and shared purpose, as members start to build trust, facilitate open communication, and establish norms that encourage positive interactions among team members.

In the Performing stage, teams reach optimal functioning where collaboration is high, and the team works effectively towards common goals. Members are generally motivated, individual strengths are leveraged, and constructive feedback is embraced. The focus is on high performance and achieving objectives, which is inherently reliant on positive behavior and dynamics within the team.

While the other stages, including Forming and Storming, involve important aspects of team development, they are less focused on encouraging positive behavior. Forming initiates the team's acquaintance with one another, often resulting in uncertainty and confusion. The Storming stage might involve conflict and competition, which does not inherently encourage positive behavior. Ultimately, Norming and Performing stages specifically highlight and nurture the positive behaviors necessary for a team’s success.