group work: group types and dynamics

Question 1

planned theme group

Answer 1

A group that is planned around a content theme and focuses on helping members resolve problems in a specific area. Membership in such a group is restricted to individuals with a demonstrated need in this themed area.

Question 2

spontaneous content groups

Answer 2

Groups that do not have planned content themes and are designed to provide personal growth and support. Membership in a spontaneous group is generally dictated by the need for general development and member characteristics

Question 3

homogeneous group

Answer 3

Consists of members with similar characteristics (e.g., sex, age, sexual orientation, race, physical ability) and concerns.

Question 4

heterogeneous group

Answer 4

Consists of members with diverse characteristics (e.g., age, gender, race, socioeconomic, and sexual orientation) and concerns

Question 5

open groups

Answer 5

Leaders allow members to enter and leave at various points while continuing a primary group focus

Question 6

closed groups

Answer 6

Leaders allow a set number of members to participate from the group’s beginning to termination and expect consistent attendance throughout the group experience

Question 7

group size

Answer 7

The number of people included in a therapy group. Group size varies depending upon the model, purpose, member age, and intensity of planned interactions.

Question 8

alliances

Answer 8

The subgrouping of members in group therapy. Positive alliances can provide sources of support and strength and lead to high levels of group performance and cohesion, serving much the same intimacy function as friendships and families. However, alliances that are exclusionary can prevent members from forming productive relationships and achieving individual and group goals.

Question 9

norms

Answer 9

The rules for individual member and group behavior, communicating to members what is and is not socially acceptable within the group environment

Question 10

forming and orienting stage

Answer 10

The beginning developmental stage of a group. This stage is characterized by group member anxiety, insecurity, and preoccupation with personal issues. Group rules and goals are also established

Question 11

inclusion

Answer 11

A member’s sense of connectedness to the group

Question 12

transition stage

Answer 12

The second group development stage, characterized by the testing of boundaries and power structures that can range from subtle testing to full-blown rebellion and conflict. Group work authors have referred to this stage as storming, conflict, resistance, or power and control.

Question 13

working stage

Answer 13

A stage of group development characterized by committed members who work to accomplish personal and group goals and help other members to do so by giving feedback, working as a cooperative team, and facilitating a supportive environment of positive change.

Question 14

termination stage

Answer 14

The final stage in group development, which is characterized by closure of group process and the relationships members have established throughout the group experience.

Question 15

process evaluation

Answer 15

A type of program evaluation that focuses on the process of implementing the program to evaluate its progress at various points. Also known as process monitoring.

Question 16

outcome evaluation

Answer 16

A type of program evaluation that measures the effectiveness of a program at the conclusion of the program

Question 17

screening and selection measures

Answer 17

Help leaders assess potential member attitudes toward groups, assess prosocial attitudes and problematic group member interpersonal behaviors, and select group members

Question 18

group climate measures

Answer 18

Help assess which stage of group process the members have entered and provide leaders with member perceptions of group climate.