Book Description

This book focuses on the essential elements of leading effective groups in group counseling. Chapter 1 concentrates on the rationale behind using groups and their myths, advantages, and limitations. Chapter 2 discusses different types of groups, especially those that are therapeutic and task-oriented, and their theory and ethics. Chapter 3 delves into the qualities of group leadership; it covers the personal and professional characteristics that effective group leaders possess. Chapter 4 concentrates on the initial preplanning work of setting up any group, covering screening and selecting members and group composition. Chapter 5 explores issues that must be dealt with during a group's first few sessions, including a review of confidentiality. Chapter 6 focuses on the dynamics of transition, a stage often characterized by conflict; positive ways of handling friction as well as exercises that can be helpful in resolving conflict are discussed. Chapter 7 addresses the working stage of groups and presents techniques to aid the productive achievement of individual and collective goals. Effective ways to terminate groups and the importance of wrapping the group up properly are discussed in chapter 8. Creative group exercises and their uses and abuses are examined in chapter 9, which describes proven ways of assisting groups in the beginning, middle, and end of their life cycles. Chapter 10 looks briefly into the future of groups and probable uses of groups in the years to come. (NB)