What is the first stage of group development called?

The first stage of group development is known as Forming. During this initial phase, team members come together, meet one another, and start to understand their shared goals. Communication is generally polite and somewhat cautious, as individuals are often trying to gauge the dynamics within the group and their roles. They may be asking questions and seeking to establish a clear understanding of the group's purpose and objectives.

In this stage, group members are not yet fully engaged in the tasks at hand, as they are more focused on building relationships and understanding the group structure. This foundational phase is crucial as it sets the tone for future interactions and the group's overall progress, paving the way for effective collaboration in subsequent stages such as Storming, Norming, and Performing.