Module 3: Relational Practice in Groups Flashcards
define a group
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
group relationships are
interdependent
group cultures develop through
shared images, values and meanings
Primary groups are
-formed in early life, characterized by an informal structure and close personal relationships (FAMILY)
Secondary groups are
- 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
what does group purpose provide
provides direction for group decisions and influences the types of communication and activities required to meet group goals
what are group dynamics
communication process and behaviors occurring during the life of the group
represent a complex blend of individual and group purpose
choosing group members based on FUNCTIONAL SIMILARITY
choosing group members similar enough - intellectually, emotionally and expeirencetnally to interact with each other in a meaningful way
group norms
refer to the unwritten behavioral rules of conduct expected of group members
universal norms
are explicit behavioral standards which must be present in all groups for effective outcomes
group-specific norms
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)
Bruce Tuckmans Five stages model of small group development
- forming
- storming
- norming
- performing
- adjourning
self roles (non-functional groups)
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
constructive role functions
are the behaviors members use to move toward goal achievement.
Functional roles differ from positional roles group members assume in that
they relate to the type of member contributions needed to achieve group goals
co-leadership
represents a form of shared leadership found primarily in therapy groups
two assumptions support the function of group leadership:
- Group leaders have a significant influence on the group process
- 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.
what are therapeutic groups?
- 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
types of therapeutic groups
-closed therapeutic groups
open groups
-homogenous groups
-heterogenous groups
what are closed therapeutic groups
have a selected membership with an expectation of regular attendance for an extended period of time
what are homogenous groups?
groups share common characteristics such as a diagnosis or personal attributes (such as a breast cancer support group)
what are heterogenous groups
groups represent a wider diversity of member characteristics and personal issues. Members may vary in age, gender and psychodynamics
what are open groups
do not have a defined membership. individuals come and go depending on their needs.
what are some things that are effective in group therapy
- instillation of hope
- universality
- Imparting information
- Imitative behavior
- socilization
- interpersonal learning
- cohesiveness
- catharsis
- alturism
- exestential factors
effective groups have these concepts
- 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
group phases: Forming
team acts as an individual, lack of clarity about teams purpose and individual roles
Group phases: storming
conflict arises as people begin to establish their team
Group phases: norming
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
Group phases: performing
the group has a clear strategy and shared vision. it can operate autonomously and resolve issues positively
Group phases: adjourning
group ends
theoretical frame work of “peace & power” by peggy chin are
- 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
what are the subconcepts of peace (peggy chin)
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
Peace and Power Process in a group meeting
Principles of solidarity: Check In: rotating leadership: value based decision making: conflict transformation: Closing:
