During which phase do team members experience conflict as they assert their individual roles?

In the context of team development, the phase where team members experience conflict as they assert their individual roles is known as the Storming phase. This stage typically follows the initial Forming phase, in which team members come together and begin to understand their shared objectives and each other’s personalities.

During the Storming phase, individuals start to express their differing opinions, challenge ideas, and establish their own roles within the team. This is a critical period where interpersonal conflicts may arise due to varying work styles, goals, or personalities. The clash of ideas and the competition for influence can lead to tension, but it is also essential for teams to move forward. It allows team members to clarify their expectations, negotiate boundaries, and develop a deeper understanding of each other’s strengths and weaknesses. The resolution of conflicts during this phase is vital, as it sets the groundwork for the subsequent Norming phase, where teams begin to collaborate more effectively.

Understanding this dynamic is crucial for effective leadership, as guiding a team through the Storming phase can help ensure that any conflicts are resolved constructively, leading to stronger team cohesion and performance in later stages.