Bruce also ruled out any possibilities that he would resign from his post after this the latest in a number of poor recent results.
"You have bad nights and that was certainly one of the worst since I've been manager here," the Blues boss said after the 1-0 home defeat.
"They played with a fear and we needed the players to stand up to be counted and as a performance it was shocking.
"As the manager I take full responsibility. I prepared them and selected the team.
"Tonight I have no excuses. I cannot make any excuses. I've defended players in the past but I cannot defend what I've seen out there against Norwich.
"Unfortunately, the players couldn't handle the situation they were in."
Asked about his position at Blues, Bruce said: "You have to ask other people about that. Whatever happens I've had five wonderful years.
"I can understand the fans' frustration. I would have been booing myself if I had been a supporter after paying a lot of money to watch the match.
"You have to take it on the chin. It is a case of dusting yourself down and go again if you can. It is not in my nature to walk away."