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Hello, everyone and welcome to the Third Group Discussion Assignment which addresses the
following questions: What are the major obstacles related to getting
to and maintaining the working stage of group dynamics? What are some of the group member
roles that have the potential to become problematic at this stage, why and how might the group
facilitator deal with these? The working stage serves as the core out of
all the stages within the group counseling process where the members can gain the most
out of the group. Members should be focused on the purpose of why they have come to group
counseling more than other stages. The working stage presents an opportunity
for group members to further develop the individual group norms and build upon the foundation
towards accomplishing their goals. An obstacle that might prohibit individuals from reaching
this stage could come about from the group being unsure or afraid to take challenges
or risks in order to move forward with their goals. Usually, we see individuals within
the group interact more directly within this stage which may not be comfortable if a rapport
of support and respect has not been established. If group members were able to establish that
connection early on, then they may reach this stage sooner than later.
Within the working stage, individuals are also encouraged to take more action-oriented
behaviors which, depending on how quickly the group moves into this stage, might prove
to be more difficult. Usually, if the group has developed a strong sense of cohesion than
they may be able to feel more comfortable drafting and initiating plans of action based
on levels of trust and respect. It may prove especially difficult for a group to maintain
the working stage if there is an active and strong feeling of mistrust; this could be
due to unexpressed feelings between group members. If the communication between the
members remains unclear or indirect, then establishing goals and working through conflicts
may never actively occur. These factors must be worked through in order for a group to
fully reach their true potential and get through the working stage.
Despite the efforts of the group leader to accurately plan out the stages and process
for the group members, they may come across a major setback in the dynamic of the group
if the initial impressions of the group do not match up with the later dynamics presented
through the group work. There will need to be continual assessment during this critical
stage in multiple formats to ensure that all members feel comfortable in addressing what
they feel is missing from their experience. Group members can move both themselves and
their fellow group members forward by choosing to disclose helpful dialogue at appropriate
times; present themselves, their commitment and motivations to be taking part in the group
counseling process in an honest manner at all times; gaining understanding of when to
demonstrate an acceptable level of spontaneity and control in various stages and topics discussed
throughout the process; how to acceptance others from different points of view and cultures,
including their behaviors as well as rejecting opinions that may differ from theirs in a
respectful manner and finally, choosing to work through conflicts in order to create
a cohesive bond instead of falling apart into fragmentation. The beneficial skills must
also be carried forward once the group counseling process terminates in order to demonstrate
that the members have truly benefited from the overall experience. This can be solidified
in the working phase of the group counseling process.
Kathy’s response to these questions reflect what everyone in the group felt to be the
strong point of the working stage of group counseling which is that in the working stage,
the members are interacting more freely and hopefully, a strong group cohesion has formed
among them. There should be a strong feeling of support, mutually shared respect and concern
for one another. This makes for a truly safe environment where the focus is on doing the
hard work. Everyone’s response to the prompt demonstrated a strong understanding that this
stage is crucial for group members.
Courtney brought up an excellent point about the reality of group counseling which is that
groups ebb and flow between the various stages and, individual members may be in the working
phase but are not ready to be fully participatory because everyone progresses at different rates.
It’s very important then for the group leader to be observant and patient in order to address
everyone’s unique needs.
Victoria did a great job in fully defining and providing examples of member roles that
are problematic as well as reminding us to be culturally sensitive towards stereotypes
that may be reinforced in member roles by individuals who are members of oppressed or
marginalized groups. I thought that was excellent to point out because our group members’
will change throughout the process and we must be ready to pick up on their growth in
order to effectively help them.
Finally, Adrianne wrapped up the discussion perfectly by emphasizing the importance of
understanding the barriers that the group members place upon themselves which are opportunities
for us to engage them in addressing these in the group role and hopefully, leading to
better understanding outside of the group setting.
Thanks for watching!