Group Dynamics

1260 Words3 Pages

Group therapy is an important aspect in the treatment process for many psychological disorders. Group therapy consists of two or more people engaged in a therapeutic session at the same time. The goals of group therapy are dependent upon which type and form the group is. There are three types of groups; the task group, the midrange group, and the process group. Within these types, four basic forms of groups exist; the activity, the support, the problem-solving and psychoeducational, and the psychodynamic. Activity groups are categorized within the task group. The goal of an activity group is to engage clients in activities that will promote a sense of belonging and cooperation. These groups may also help the client develop necessary social skills Along with client participation; nurses and therapists help make up this type of group. Midrange type groups consist of support, problem-solving and psychoeducational groups. Support groups allow clients and families the occasion to mutually share problems with one another. In support groups, little or no change is anticipated; rather it assists its members in managing more efficiently. Problem-solving and psychoeducational groups are also considered midrange, with the focus on interpersonal learning and support. Groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and cognitive-behavioral groups are all examples of such groups. These types of groups allow clients with similar difficulties to openly discuss their feelings, experiences, and aspirations with others, while being in a controlled, safe environment. It may allow a client the opportunity to reflect on how their past behaviors have affected others. The leader of these groups, are typical... ... middle of paper ... ...order that affects them. It also affords the member the opportunity to discover their strengths and weaknesses. It allows the nurse to educate the client in anger management, such as the use of FRED for anger impulse control. With education, the nurse can teach its members how to safely take and store medications. Works Cited Group Leadership, Concepts, and Techniques. Retrieved on 16 Sept. 2011 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK25859/ Fortinash, K., & Holoday Worret, P. (2008). Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing (4th ed. ed.). St. Louis, Missouri: Mosby. Role of dynamic group therapy in psychiatry. (2002). Retrieved on 17 Sept 2011 from http://apt.rcpsych.org/content/8/1/34.full Toseland, Ronald W & Rivas, R. An Introduction To Group Work Practice, 5e. Retrieved on 16 Sept. 2011 from http://vig.pearsonptr.com:8081/samplechapter/0205376061.pdf

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