Ch. 5 Groups: Process & Practice

Five general areas that serve as guidelines for a group proposal

1. Rationale

2. Objectives

3. Practical Considerations

4. Procedures

5. Evaluations

A good screening & selecting question to ask:

"Should this particular person be included in this particular group at this time with this group leader?"

Preliminary Screening Session

A private session between leader and candidate (always a good idea).

Six practical considerations for forming a group?

1. Group size

2. Group composition

3. Frequency & duration of meetings

4. Length of group

5. Place for group meetings

6. Open versus closed groups

What are the uses of a pre-group meeting?

1. Goals, role requirements, and behavior expectations can be discussed and understood.

2. Unproductive anxiety can be reduced.

3. Increases chances of successful outcomes.

4. Sets the stage for relationship building.

Two questions to consider for clarify leadership and membership expectations.

1. "What are your expectations for this group?"

2. "What did you have in mind when you signed up?"

What are the two main goals of pre-group preparation?

1. Clarify what needs can & cannot be met within group.

2. Have members state their reasons for joining.

8 Topics to discuss when evaluating co-leader issues in forming a group.

1. Theoretical orientations

2. cultural and ethnic backgrounds

3. reservations

4. strengths & weaknesses

5. Ethical practice

6. Members or situations that will challenge you personally and professionally.

7. Conflict & disagreements

8. Needs and how to support them