Problematic Members The Theory And Practice Of Group Psychotherapy
Humanities
Discussion 2: Problematic Members
While there are various types of problematic behaviors, there are a few key roles that may be especially troublesome for a therapy group. Two examples include monopolists and silent clients. The monopolist is very self-oriented, dominates conversations, talks over others, and might even attempt to take over as group leader. At the other extreme, the silent client limits active participation and offers very little to the therapy group. As others in the therapy group open up and make themselves emotionally vulnerable, resentment towards the “silent” person who never says anything may develop.
For this Discussion, review the week’s Learning Resources. Select a problematic group role and consider how it might adversely impact a therapy group. In addition, consider how you might address such a problematic member if their behavior became disruptive.
With these thoughts in mind:
Post by Day 4 a brief description of the problematic group role you selected. Then, explain how the problematic group role might adversely impact a therapy group. Finally, explain one way you might address the problematic group role. Be specific and use the Learning Resources and the current literature to support your response.
References:
- Yalom, I. D., & Leszcz, M. (2005). The theory and practice of group psychotherapy (5th ed.). New York, NY: Basic Books.
- Chapter 8: “The Selection of Clients” (pp. 231–257)
- Chapter 13: “Problem Group Members” (pp. 391–427)
- Burlingame, G. M., Cox, J. C., Davies, D. R., Layne, C. M., & Gleave, R. (2011). The group selection questionnaire: Further refinements in group member selection. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research, and Practice, 15(1), 60–74.
