The next stage is invitational communication. This is the initial interaction that can spark a relationship. "Hi, what's your name?" would be an example of this, or "Where are you from?". Initial interaction is influenced by self-concept, proximity, and similarity. I have a media example of Joey from Friends, and his trademark opening line, "How you doin?": http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43wkqM27z2E. This line always works for Joey to get the girl and spark romance.
The third stage in growth of a romantic relationship is explorational communican, and it involves the exchanging of information. This is when people find out more about the other person's interests and wants. After that comes the next stage, intensifying communication. This is usually when people fall in love and euphoria is experienced with the other person. The relationship becomes exclusive and partners take on dual perspective. They now recognize that they are a couple.
Another stage that doesn't always happen in relationships is revising communication. Although it doesn't always occur, it is important when it does. The relationship is looked at more realistically and is evaluated. Problems are recognized and partners decide if they want to work through them and continue the relationship or end it.
The final stage is commitment, or the decision to stay in the relationship. Other aspects of life start to get arranged around the relationship, and partners invest more into it to maintain satisfaction.
I had to bring in another clip from Friends because Ross and Rachel's relationship is a perfect representation of growth that occurs in romantic relationships: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43wkqM27z2E
References:
Wood, Julia T. (2012). Interpersonal communication: Everyday encounters. Boston, MA: Wadsworth Cengage Learning.
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