Module 3: Relational Practice in Groups

Question 1

define a group

Answer 1

a group is a human communication system composed of three or more individuals, interacting for the achievement of some common goals who influence and are influenced by each other

Question 2

group relationships are

Answer 2

interdependent

Question 3

group cultures develop through

Answer 3

shared images, values and meanings

Question 4

Primary groups are

Answer 4

-formed in early life, characterized by an informal structure and close personal relationships (FAMILY)

Question 5

Secondary groups are

Answer 5

• represent less personalized, time limited relationships with an established beginning and ending
• they differ form primary groups have prescribed structure, a designated leader and specific goals
• when the group completes its task or achieves goals it disbands

Question 6

what does group purpose provide

Answer 6

provides direction for group decisions and influences the types of communication and activities required to meet group goals

Question 7

what are group dynamics

Answer 7

communication process and behaviors occurring during the life of the group
represent a complex blend of individual and group purpose

Question 8

choosing group members based on FUNCTIONAL SIMILARITY

Answer 8

choosing group members similar enough - intellectually, emotionally and expeirencetnally to interact with each other in a meaningful way

Question 9

group norms

Answer 9

refer to the unwritten behavioral rules of conduct expected of group members

Question 10

universal norms

Answer 10

are explicit behavioral standards which must be present in all groups for effective outcomes

Question 11

group-specific norms

Answer 11

are constructed by group members, they represent the shared beliefs values and unspoken operational rules governing group functions (ex. groups tolerance for b-room humor)

Question 12

Bruce Tuckmans Five stages model of small group development

Answer 12

• forming
• storming
• norming
• performing
• adjourning

Question 13

self roles (non-functional groups)

Answer 13

are roles a person unconsciously uses to meet self needs at the expense of other members group values and goal achievement
examples: the aggressor, joker, avoider

Question 14

constructive role functions

Answer 14

are the behaviors members use to move toward goal achievement.

Question 15

Functional roles differ from positional roles group members assume in that

Answer 15

they relate to the type of member contributions needed to achieve group goals

Question 16

co-leadership

Answer 16

represents a form of shared leadership found primarily in therapy groups

Question 17

two assumptions support the function of group leadership:

Answer 17

1. Group leaders have a significant influence on the group process
2. most problems in groups can be avoided or reworked productively if the leader is aware of and responsive to the needs of individual group members including the needs of the leader.

Question 18

what are therapeutic groups?

Answer 18

• applies to group relationships, refers to more than the treatment of emotional an behavior disorders
• offers a structured format that encourages a person to experience his or her natural healing potential

Question 19

types of therapeutic groups

Answer 19

-closed therapeutic groups
open groups
-homogenous groups
-heterogenous groups

Question 20

what are closed therapeutic groups

Answer 20

have a selected membership with an expectation of regular attendance for an extended period of time

Question 21

what are homogenous groups?

Answer 21

groups share common characteristics such as a diagnosis or personal attributes (such as a breast cancer support group)

Question 22

what are heterogenous groups

Answer 22

groups represent a wider diversity of member characteristics and personal issues. Members may vary in age, gender and psychodynamics

Question 23

what are open groups

Answer 23

do not have a defined membership. individuals come and go depending on their needs.

Question 24

what are some things that are effective in group therapy

Answer 24

• instillation of hope
• universality
• Imparting information
• Imitative behavior
• socilization
• interpersonal learning
• cohesiveness
• catharsis
• alturism
• exestential factors

Question 25

effective groups have these concepts

Answer 25

• goals are clearly identified and collaboratively developed
• controversy viewed as healthy
• power equally shared and rotates among group members depending on the abilities and the needs
• decision making is flexible and adapted to group needs

Question 26

group phases: Forming

Answer 26

team acts as an individual, lack of clarity about teams purpose and individual roles

Question 27

Group phases: storming

Answer 27

conflict arises as people begin to establish their team

Question 28

Group phases: norming

Answer 28

there is a level of consensus and agreement within the team. there is clarity about individual roles, role of the leader is important in managing this

Question 29

Group phases: performing

Answer 29

the group has a clear strategy and shared vision. it can operate autonomously and resolve issues positively

Question 30

Group phases: adjourning

Answer 30

group ends

Question 31

theoretical frame work of “peace & power” by peggy chin are

Answer 31

• all human relationships involve the use of power
• typically there is one person or a group of people who have relative privilege or power in any group structure and therefore tend to be able to exert their will on those with less power
• people seek a space in life where they are relatively free from competition and power imbalances and where cooperation and peace prevails
• in typical western societies the public realm tends to be associated with male power, with the ability to exercise ones will in the world with that which is strong, powerful and savvy
• conflict is inevitable in all human relationships
• people recognize the value of cooperative ways of working together

Question 32

what are the subconcepts of peace (peggy chin)

Answer 32

P: praxis: reflection and action to transform the world

E: Empowerment: growth of personal ability to enact one’s will in the contest of love and respect for others

A: Awareness: growing knowledge of self and others

C: Cooperation: commitment to group solidarity and integrity

E: evolvement: commitment to deliberate growth and change

Question 33

Peace and Power Process in a group meeting

Answer 33

Principles of solidarity:
Check In:
rotating leadership: 
value based decision making: 
conflict transformation: 
Closing: