Which stage of group development involves forming initial relationships?

The stage that involves forming initial relationships is the orientation stage. During this phase, group members come together and begin to establish connections with one another. Individuals share their backgrounds, interests, and relevant experiences, which helps to build rapport and trust within the group. It's characterized by members getting to know each other, expressing their thoughts and feelings, and attempting to navigate their roles within the team.

This stage sets the foundation for future interactions and collaboration, as members learn to align their goals and expectations. Successful navigation of the orientation stage is crucial for the development of a cohesive and productive group dynamic. As members become more comfortable with one another, they can move on to subsequent stages of group development, such as storming, norming, and performing, each of which serves different purposes in the evolution of the group's effectiveness.