Group Work Case Study

Working Stage

Corey et al., (2014) notes that deeper levels of exploration are experienced in the working stage of group. According to Toseland and Rivas (2014), this stage of group development consists of structuring the group’s work to rely more on the direction and guidance of group members. In order to help group members to achieve their goals, the facilitator must maintain the member’s awareness of their goals. During this stage, members began to discuss personal issues, such as relationship issues, lack of self-care, sleep deprivation, and dissatisfaction with the internship process. Utilizing the person-centered approach, member’s roles are to develop awareness of themselves and others, find self-actualization, become open to the experience, and are willing to make changes (Prever, 2010). In the working stage of group, group norms were further explored and

Understanding the variations between groups is critical in maintaining the group’s purpose. Therapeutic groups are fundamental when engaging in group work practice because they allow workers to focus on goal-directed activities intended to meet the socio-emotional needs of their clients. Furthermore, it is ideal for the facilitator to understand the five developmental stages of group that become extremely helpful in understanding group work practice. Groups that support, educate, socialize, and allow growth is needed within the social work field. Utilizing therapeutic modalities and approaches for groups is necessary to help members reach their treatment goals. Nonetheless, person-centered theory helps social workers understand how to provide clients with a safe and trusting climate, that will lead to self-exploration and awareness of things that have been blocking their growth. Overall the student lead group experience was very rewarding, allowing students the opportunity to experience group work practice through a learning