wk 3 discussion
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Jan 9, 2024
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Explain how a social worker assesses group dynamics.
The social worker assesses group dynamics by examining the members' interactions with one another and their perceptions regarding goals, norms and structure. AccordingTo Toseland and Rivas (2017), group dynamics is essential for understanding the social structure of groups and for developing beginning-level skills in group work practice. According to Toseland and Rivas (2017), social workers assess groups based on the members' communication styles and the patterns of interaction that arise from those styles.
Then, evaluate the dynamics (communication, cohesion, social integration, influence) of the therapy group shown in the Group video.
Communication: Communication can be verbal as well as nonverbal. Interaction starts when group members start talking to each other, which leads
to patterns (Toseland& Rivas, 2017). Negative group dynamics were on display in the video. Many intense feelings are present since Pam felt manipulated by Henry. She demanded Henry's exclusion from the group when
she revealed how badly he had treated her. Julius, the group's leader, urged him to remain so that everyone might learn from him. Cohesion:
Cohesion was displayed as the other group members asked questions about theactions and responses of Henry and Pam. As a group, they committed to assisting Pam with her emotions and earning her trust via their promises to support and look out for one another.
Social Integration: Social integration will help group members to advance to achieve goals in the group (Toseland & Rivas, 2017). All of the group members were engaged and active during the session because of Pam and Henry's commotion. They lifted each other up by sharing their thoughts and opinions on the current situation, which helped keep tensions low.
Influence:
The influence of the group leader/moderator Julius effectively kept Pam and Henry engaged in the session and listened to their perspectives. Not
one individual stormed out of the room because he gave each of them an equal chance. The treatment might be positively or negatively impacted by the
group's dynamic. The dynamics of group therapy will suffer if the participants are hard to manage. According to Toseland and Rivas (2017), the purpose of group facilitation and guidance is to foster the growth of group dynamics that make members happy with their roles and help the group as a whole succeed.
Explain how this group’s dynamics may influence treatment. What principles for practice might be helpful for the leader to know in dealing with this group?
One principle derived from the understanding of group development that could
be helpful to the leader when working with this group is knowing of the occurrences of tensions. Toseland and Rivas (2017) state that disagreements among members might lead to tension or conflict. The worker's role is to mediate the group's disagreements and help members come to an agreement so that they may work together productively, all while helping the group establish norms that stress the significance of respect and tolerance. The group's dynamics impact how each participant engages with the other during the session.
References:
Toseland, R. W., & Rivas, R. F. (2017). An introduction to group work practice (8th ed.).
Pearson. Chapter 3, "Understanding Group Dynamics" (pp. 67-97)
Group. (2020, May 1). S1, Ep 5: Is this allowed in group?Links to an external site.
[Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4B2AfEiVAgI
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