Assignment task:
Using this reference - Corcoran, J. (2009). Groups in Social Work. Boston, MA: Allen & Bacon - respond to the following:
In my experience as an incoming social worker, while I haven't yet directly facilitated group therapy sessions, I have extensive experience leading group interventions grounded in evidence-based practices as a prevention counselor. Presently, my work involves conducting outreach sessions with middle school students focusing on substance abuse prevention, co-facilitating a parenting support group, and overseeing a girls' group that has demonstrated significant positive outcomes for the participants I serve.
In initiating these group sessions, my foremost priority is establishing a strong rapport with the individuals involved and ensuring clarity regarding confidentiality within the group setting. It's crucial to communicate the necessity of maintaining confidentiality to protect the sensitive information shared within the group. Establishing ground rules and a structured agenda for discussions is essential to prevent individuals from feeling overwhelmed or disconnected from the topics being addressed. This proactive approach helps mitigate the risk of individuals withdrawing from the group, especially when topics may evoke discomfort or resistance.
As highlighted in Corcoran's (2009) work, the risk of certain individuals dominating group dynamics can impede the therapeutic process, particularly if their experiences resonate strongly compared to others. Preventing monopolization is a key objective in group therapeutic facilitation to not allow for members to "disengage or become frustrated with the overbearing, dominant group member" (Corcoran, 2015 p.151). To address this, I would suggest that each member has the opportunity to contribute and participate, thereby preventing any one individual from exerting excessive influence over the group discussions. While managing dominant personalities can be challenging coming from my experience in a group setting, it's essential to prioritize equitable participation to ensure that all members feel valued and heard throughout the therapeutic process.