Which stage focuses on establishing goals, rules, and connections?

The stage that focuses on establishing goals, rules, and connections is the Forming stage. During this initial phase of group development, team members come together and start to understand the group dynamics. It is characterized by members introducing themselves, setting boundaries, and discussing the objectives of the group.

In this stage, the focus is on building relationships and establishing a foundation for cooperation. Participants are often polite and tentative as they begin to outline their roles, expectations, and the group norms that will guide future interactions. Successful navigation of this stage is crucial, as it sets the groundwork for deeper collaboration and problem-solving in subsequent stages. Here, establishing clear goals and shared understanding helps in fostering an environment conducive to teamwork as the group progresses to the later stages of development.