Group vs. Individual work

Question 1

advantages of groups

- efficiency

Answer 1

• save time and effort

Question 2

advantages of groups

- commonality

Answer 2

• not being alone with one’s problems

- others have similar thoughts and feelings

Question 3

advantages of groups

- variety of viewpoints

Answer 3

• members have different opinions, which makes the experience valuable

Question 4

advantages of groups

- sense of belonging

Answer 4

• satisfy need of belonging
• members often identify with one another and feel part of a whole
• being accepted is an important experience

Question 5

advantages of groups

- skills practice

Answer 5

• members can practice new skills and behaviours in supportive environment before trying them in real world situations

Question 6

advantages of groups

- feedback

Answer 6

• group feedback is more powerful than individual feedback

- suggestions, reactions and perceptions of others can be valuable

Question 7

advantages of groups

- real-life approximation

Answer 7

• groups replicate real-life situations better than oe-to-one counseling
• minisocieties: temporary substitute for the community, family or work site
• group gives safe atmosphere to discuss emotions, attites and behaviours

Question 8

advantages of groups

- vicarious learning

Answer 8

• opportunity to hear concers similar to their own can make them realise mistakes in own behaviour etc.

Question 9

advantages of groups

- commitment

Answer 9

• commitment often stronger when in a group setting
• motivation to honour them is stronger when they are made to a number of people
• combination of support, expectations, desire not to let down the group is a powerful motivation for behavioural change

Question 10

disadvantages of groups

Answer 10

• less individualised attention
• confidentiality more difficult to maintain
• conformity concerns and peer pressure
• not everyone can be in a group
• scapegoating might occur
• leaders are not always properly trained

Question 11

group counseling is not for everyone

Answer 11

• too severe issues
• poor interpersonal skills
• individuals who do not want to be present can disrupt group process
• -> may be harmed because group pressure hinders them from self-disclosure
• sometimes individual’s problems are not addressed adequately in group setting