Chapter 6: Group Work

Question 1

GROUP COUNSELING
Irvin Yalom—11 Reasons That Groups Work So Well
1. Altruism. Giving help to others gives members a sense of wellbeing.
2. Universality. Simply the notion that you are not the only one in
the world with a particular problem.
3. Installation of hope. In plain everyday English, the members
expect the group to work.
4. Catharsis. Talking about your diffi culties is benefi cial.
5. Group cohesiveness or a sense of we-ness.
6. Imitative behavior. As you know, behaviorist Albert Bandura’s
social learning theory suggests that we learn by watching others.
In this situation the members copy or model the leader and the
other members.
7. Family reenactment. The group helps abet family of origin
issues and feelings and the group allows you to work through
them.
8. Imparting information. This could be advice or even psychodynamic insights.
9. Interpersonal learning. Members receive feedback regarding
how their behavior affects others.
10. Socialization techniques such as feedback and instruction are
helpful.
11. Existential factors, for example discovering that life can have
meaning even if it is seemingly unjust and unfair at times.

Question 2

Groups
Ideal size is 5 or 6 to 8 members, with 8 being preferable. Groups
that are conducted for a long time (e.g., 6 months or more) can
function effectively with up to 10 members. Size should be
smaller with children.
Group can be open (new members can join after the group

begins) or closed (no new members can join after the group
begins).
A group can have a single leader or be led by coleaders.
Advantages of coleaders: having two role models (perhaps
two genders,) more feedback, one leader can deal with the client
if there is transference and two leaders can better see what is
transpiring in the group. Disadvantages: leaders can work at
cross-purposes, may have confl icting models of therapy, could
be in a power struggle and may each decide to charge the client
a different fee.
Group work is cost effective and the counselor can see more
clients in the same period of time.
Most experts believe in the stage models to explain development
and dynamics: The initial stage, the forming stage, or the
orientation stage. This is kind of the “get acquainted” stage;
the transition, confl ict, or storming stage. This stage is
characterized by power struggles for control and resistance;
the working, productive, performing, or action stage.
Here the group works toward goals in a cohesive manner;
the termination, closure, completion, or mourning and
adjourning stage. Members must deal with saying goodbye. Members often experience feelings of improved insight,
awareness, accomplishment, and enhanced self-esteem.
Referrals for additional intervention may be prescribed.
Group member roles are positive, such as helping others and being a stellar role model. Other roles, such as monopolizing the group;
intellectualizing too much; being silent; or attacking others are considered negative. The scapegoat is the member who is blamed for the
group’s problems. This term is also used in family therapy

Question 3

Group Leadership Styles
Adept group leaders model appropriate behavior to enhance participation. This is especially important with resistant clients.
Autocratic or authoritarian style advocates making decisions
for members. It is appropriate during a crisis or when a quick decision
is in order but in most situations it will foster resentment.
Laissez faire or hands-off style Here the leader has little in-volvement. This approach is appropriate when all members are very
committed to a group outcome or goal.
Democratic approach allows input from members but allows
group members to have input into their decisions. This is generally
the best style.
Speculative leaders are often seen as charismatic. They rely
on their personal power and charisma to move the group in a desirable direction. They are often adored and group members look up to
them, though they are not peer oriented.
Confrontive leadership style The facilitator reveals the impact that his behavior has on himself as well as the impact that other
group members have on him.
Research has not shown that the speculative style is superior
to the confrontive style or vice versa. Whatever style the leader
utilizes, he or she must not impose his or her personal values on
group members.

Question 4

Types of Groups
1. Psychoeducational/guidance groups provide members with
information relevant to their situation.
2. Counseling groups focus on conscious issues related to personal growth and development.
3. Group therapy (a term coined by Jacob Moreno who founded
psychodrama) can focus on unconscious material, the past, and
personality change.
4. T-Groups (training groups) are often intended for business or
personal motivation.
5. Structured groups are centered around certain issues such as
shyness or how to prepare for a job interview.
6. Self-help groups/mutual help/support groups (such as AA)
are not led by a professional. These groups have been dubbed
as support groups and those that follow the AA model are often
called 12-step groups.