During the Forming stage in group counseling, what is the initial focus?

• A. Resolving conflicts
• B. Establishing rules
• C. Testing boundaries
• D. Clarifying roles

Answer: (B)

In the Forming stage, the group concentrates on creating safety and structure by establishing rules and expectations—confidentiality, attendance, how decisions will be made, and how members will interact. This groundwork reduces uncertainty and helps people feel secure enough to engage openly. Conflicts tend to surface and be addressed in later stages, while testing boundaries and clarifying roles typically emerge after the group has established some norms and trust. So the initial focus is on setting the rules that shape how the group will operate.