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Group Development
Group Development
The facilitator will guide the group through six weekly sessions, each organized around one of the five stages of the relational model of group development identified by Schiller. (1997)
Group Stages:
1. Pre-Affiliation
Members are guarded in their interactions and have feelings of uncertainty about the group
The role of the facilitator in this stage is to begin to establish trust, establish goals and norms, and gently invite participation of members
2. Establishing a Relational Base
Members form stronger bonds and connections and feel a greater sense of safety within the group
The role of the facilitator in this stage is to assist members in establishing and maintaining relationships
3. Mutuality and Interpersonal Empathy
Members move from simply making connections to more empathetic understandings and respect for differences
The role of the facilitator in this stage is to encourage disclosure, empathetic understanding and respect for differences
4. Challenge and Change
Members learn how to stay connected as they potentially deal with conflict
The role of the facilitator in this stage is to help members maintain their connections despite any challenges that may arise
5. Separation
Members have learned new behavior patterns that help them move to other social experiences
The role of the facilitator in this stage is to help members gain closure and move on from the group
Setting Norms
Setting Norms
Norms are expectations of behaviors for group members that help a group do its work effectively and discourages behaviors that may be detrimental to the group. They create a culture of kindness, respect and safety. (Eaton, 2017). They should be based on principles of trauma-informed practice, transparency and a recognition of cultural and gender issues. (SAMHSA, 2014)
Norms should be created collaboratively by group members following these recommended steps:
Use a flip-chart or whiteboard and make a list of ideas of norms that each member comes up with
Have a question and clarification period so that every member understands what each norm means
Go through the list one by one to see which norms all members agree to
Keep list at no more than 10 norms
Have final constructed list posted at every session
Setting Goals
Setting Goals
Goals are the outcomes that group members want to achieve at the end of the group. They are helpful in measuring the effectiveness of the group at the end, but also give members something to work towards.
Ask each member to develop a personal goal for themselves as a member of the group
Write all goals down on a whiteboard or flip-chart and guide a discussion about which goals individuals hold in common
Make sure goals are attainable and realistic
Complete the list—reword, revise, agree
Dealing With Conflict
Dealing With Conflict
Conflict is a natural occurrence in any group setting. When managed effectively, conflicts can lead to greater group cohesion and personal growth. (Zastrow & Hessenauer, 2019)
Here are two possible strategies for resolving conflict:
No-Lose Problem Solving – This approach ensures both sides have their needs met
1. Identify and define the needs of each opposing side
2. Generate possible alternative solutions
3. Evaluate the alternative solutions
4. Decide on the best acceptable solution
5. Work out ways of implementing the solution
6. Evaluate how it worked (Zastrow & Hessenauer, 2019)
SAMHSA Conflict Resolution Model
1. Identify the problem
2. Identify the feelings
3. Identify the specific impact
4. Decide whether to resolve the conflict
5. Address and resolve the conflict (Reilly et. al., 2019)
Group Endings
Group Endings
The ending of a group can come with a variety of mixed emotions. Some members may feel grief at the prospect of separating from members with whom they have developed special bonds or from the loss of a dependable source of support. Some may feel a sense of urgency and a need to leave nothing undone while others may approach the ending with feelings of accomplishment and readiness for a new beginning. It’s important for the facilitator to provide time to sort out these feelings. The facilitator may choose to review all of the learnings and accomplishments with the group. A great way to achieve an effective ending is to do a closing ritual. Here are some ideas linked below:
Note Cards With Wishes, Memories or Feedback
Check-ins
Check-ins are a wonderful way to begin a group meeting. This portion of the session helps members to reconnect with themselves, one another and feel more engaged with the present moment (Call, Mae, Whitlock, 2020).
Check-ins also give group members an opportunity to share any difficult emotions or experiences (Highs or Lows) that happened since the last session. This portion of the session can help members to feel seen by the entire group and heard, which can help cultivate feelings of belonging and cultivate the group's cohesion.
Important to Note: Check-in prompts can gently lead the group towards reflecting on the BIG QUESTION or theme of the session. Prompts can change each week, depending on the focus for each session. Check-ins also offer facilitators are way to gauge the emotional temperature(s) and state(s) of the group (Zastrow & Hessenauer, 2019).
Additional Information and link to a Check-in Quick Guide: https://accelerate.uofuhealth.utah.edu/resilience/using-check-in-questions-to-promote-well-being
Tips for Journaling
Facilitator Note: This portion of the session provides an opportunity for the facilitator to remind members the value of being able to identify emotions, the connection between emotions and offsetting behavior. Facilitators can also offer each member positive reinforcement and encouragement for attempts in using a learned DBT skill in being able to manage their emotions, the power of staying present and the gift of practicing self-compassion. This is also an opportunity to provide greater insight and additional tips for how to use skills more effectively (Zastrow & Hessenauer, 2019).
The following linked websites offer tips and guidance for facilitating groups:
American Psychological Association: Keys to Great Group Therapy
Therapist Aid: A great site with lots of educational videos, worksheets, guides etc.
Positive Psychology: Your Ultimate Group Therapy Guide
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