Group Dynamics

Author(s):  
Mark J. Macgowan

This entry is an overview of group dynamics relevant for group work practice. The history of small group theory and group dynamics is described. The bulk of the entry is dedicated to discussing four main areas of group dynamics: communication and interaction, interpersonal attraction and cohesion, social integration (power, influence, norms, roles, status), and group development. How these might vary according to gender, race, ethnicity, and culture is included. The entry ends with a discussion of trends and needs for further research.

Author(s):  
Ronald W. Toseland ◽  
Heather Horton

This entry begins with a brief history of group work in the United States. Next, there is a description of the wide range of treatment and task groups used by social workers. This is followed by a discussion of group dynamics, diversity and social justice issues. Then, there is a brief overview of the developmental stages that groups go through and widely used practice models. The chapter concludes with a brief review of the evidence base for the effectiveness of group work practice.


Social Work ◽  
1963 ◽  
Vol 8 (4) ◽  
pp. 39-46 ◽  
Author(s):  
William Schwartz
Keyword(s):  

Author(s):  
Scott Giacomucci

AbstractThis chapter outlines a brief history of social work with groups including its place within the larger social work field and the landscapes of group work practice and education. Basic theory and concepts in social work with groups are presented including mutual aid, the centrality of relationships, and an introduction to the non-deliberative social work tradition. The presence of group work in social work practice has significantly increased due as research studies have piled up to support its efficacy. Nevertheless, at the same time, the presence of group work in social work education has steadily declined in the past several decades.


Author(s):  
Simon C. Faulkner

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant increase in demand for mental health services for young people. This demand comes on top of a preexisting surge in mental health presentations for our youth, and it places extraordinary demand on support services and the professionals who deliver them. Concurrently, it is recognised that engaging and working with young people and their mental health has its own unique challenges, and that many young people find direct ‘talk-based’ therapies confronting. This article examines the use of a model of group work practice combining the benefits of rhythmic music with reflective discussions as a response to the dual challenges of workplace burnout and client engagement. It reflects on the important role music has to play in young lives and how this can be extended into therapy in a fun and uplifting manner. It draws attention to the long history of rhythmic music within traditional healing practices and the emerging scientific evidence supporting this approach.


Author(s):  
Catherine Fuchsel

In this chapter, the theoretical foundation of the Sí, Yo Puedo (SYP) curriculum and program is examined. Intersectionality, which examines the intersection of concepts such as immigration status, domestic violence, race/ethnicity, and culture and is the main theory behind the development of the SYP curriculum and program, is explained and the author examines her own intersecting identities. Other theories that were used in the development of the SYP curriculum and program include feminist ideology, which examines power differences between genders and a patriarchal system; the family violence perspective; social work and therapeutic theories; group theory, which relates to knowledge of the group facilitator’s role and group work and dynamics; and the domestic violence empowerment framework, which raises awareness and provides education.


Author(s):  
Charles D. Garvin ◽  
Maeda J. Galinsky

This overview highlights the current status of group practice, examines the conceptual frameworks for working with groups, reviews the status of group work practice research, and identifies challenges for practice. The discussion examines how the numerous frameworks in social work with groups are joined by adherence to a systemic perspective, an understanding of group dynamics, common intervention concepts, and processes important to phases of intervention. While group work writings and practice have always emphasized the importance of opposing injustices, recent literature has taken a strong position on how group work theory and practice are related to the pursuit of social justice. Although recent studies on social group work are characterized by increasing attention to design, data collection, and analysis, research is still at a developing stage. The discussion of challenges points to areas that are of special importance in current and future practice, including diversity in composition, a commitment to attaining social justice, changing membership, involuntary membership, new professional roles, and use of technology.


2015 ◽  
Vol 22 (2) ◽  
pp. 181
Author(s):  
Elaine Campbell

Researchers use self-reflection and personal narrative as a lens through which to identify thoughts and feelings about lived experience.  This article uses reflexivity in order to capture, critique and develop small group work practice in clinical legal education.  It draws on the concept of constructivism and queries whether small group work in a clinical setting can truly be a paradigm of student-centred teaching.  At its core, it argues that an authentic student-centred approach is best achieved when power is transferred to clinic students and they are given the opportunity to lead their own group work.


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