Psych of Group Therapy - Lecture 1

PSYC 3619 with Jennifer Lyke

Therapeutic Factors

Elements that contribute to the effectiveness of therapy, such as instillation of hope and universality.

Instillation of Hope

Belief that change is possible, often present in effective therapeutic settings.

Universality

The concept that individuals in a group share common experiences, reducing feelings of isolation.

Corrective Recapitulation of the Primary Family Group

A therapeutic factor where group interactions mirror family dynamics, allowing members to explore new behaviors.

Imitative Behavior

Learning that occurs by observing and copying the behavior of others, especially in a therapeutic setting.

Process-Oriented Groups

Groups focused on personal growth, interpersonal issues, and member interactions, emphasizing the 'here and now'.

Support/Self-help Groups

Groups that provide support for specific issues without always having a trained facilitator.

Psychoeducational Groups

Structured, time-limited groups that focus on education and skill development to prevent problems.

Fight-or-Flight Response

A physiological reaction to perceived threats, preparing the body to confront or escape danger.

Cognitive Distortion

An exaggerated thought pattern that may lead to inaccurate beliefs about oneself or the world.

Emotional Reasoning

The belief that feelings reflect reality, leading to misinterpretations of situations.

Social Microcosm

A small group representing larger social dynamics and individual behaviors.

Group Cohesion

The bonds that hold a group together, affecting its dynamics and functioning.

Altruism

The act of helping others which can also yield benefits to the helper.

Development of Socializing Techniques

Skills learned through group interaction that enhance social competence.

Critical Incidents

Moments or interactions in a group that can significantly influence group dynamics and individual growth.

Self-Help Group

A support group providing individuals the opportunity to discuss their issues and connect with others.

What is didactic instruction, and what is its purpose?

Didactic instruction transfers information, changes thoughts, explains illness, and structures the group. It may include direct advice, but it's not always helpful to the recipient

How can you find group or peer support?

• Ask doctors or therapists for referrals.

• Use online sites (e.g., Psychology Today).

• Check NAMI for peer groups.

• See if insurance covers group therapy.

• Try virtual groups

Group Therapy

is led by trained professionals, focuses on specific issues (e.g., anxiety, depression), and helps with coping skills, emotional support, and new perspectives.

How does group therapy help?

It provides community, reduces loneliness, teaches coping skills (e.g., mindfulness, breathing), and offers feedback from others for new perspectives

Peer Support Group

is led by someone who has experienced similar struggles. It’s informal, focuses on validation, and creates a supportive environment. It builds resilience, reduces isolation, and shares experiences, but isn't professional therapy.

What don’t peer support groups do?

They’re not for therapy or fixing issues and don’t provide professional mental health intervention

When is group therapy most useful?

It’s best for general mental health issues (e.g., anxiety, depression) but not for people in crisis or with self-harm thoughts—individual therapy is recommended in those cases.