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Two Discussion board Replies

Delores

Group Conflict

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In a group setting, it is natural for people to feel subject to the judgment of the others within the group. Add to that, the pressure and stress of opening up to group dissection and conflict will happen. Conflict, according to Forsyth (2014) “occurs when the action or beliefs of other members are unacceptable to and resisted by another member” (p. 434).

Therefore the group leader must be able to not only identify the potential for conflict, but also understand when to bring it out and when to distract (Forsyth, 2014). For those times when conflict needs to be addressed, the group leader should focus on staying present (Corey, Corey & Haynes, 2014). This is effective because staying in the present can facilitate true participation. Through talking about how the members feel in that moment, they can bond through similar thoughts, respect alternate thoughts and get a better sense of who the other members are. It is not as personal, but it is reflective of their inner self (Corey, Corey & Haynes, 2014). Being present helps build familiarity, trust and therefore a healthy foundation.

A leader should be familiar with the common group behaviors such as the chronic talker, dominator, distracter, the rescuer, the resistant and the member who is out to sabotage the leader (Jacobs et al., 2014). By being aware, the leader can develop a working policy of how best to deal with these members. Jacobs et al., (2012) assert “all behavior is purposeful” (p.395). However, a leader should keep a balanced perspective and be vigilant against their biases and stereotypes. It is not a given that if a member comes in exhibiting a certain behavior that they should be labeled forever. A group leader should willing to let the label go, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice” (Ephesians 4:31 New International Version).

References:

Corey, G., Corey, M. S., & Haynes, R. (2014). Groups in action: Evolution and challenges (2nd ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.

 

Forsyth, D. R. (2014). Group dynamics (6th ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.

 

Jacobs, E. E., Masson, R. L., Harvill, R. L., & Schimmel, C. J. (2012). Group counseling: Strategies and skills (7th ed.). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole.

Jennifer

Conflict

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Conflict, as defined by Forsyth (2014) is disagreement, discord, and friction that occur when the actions or beliefs of one or more members of the group are unacceptable to and resisted by one or more of the other group members. (p.434)  Conflicts within groups can arise for a number of reasons. Negativity, disconnection and resistance are just a few.  When one or more members of a group are constantly complaining about the group or particular members of the group, a negative tone is set for the group as a whole. Leaders are charged with the responsibility of extinguishing this negativity. 

            The beginning stage of a group is the most difficult time in dealing with negativity.  Seeking the participation of more positive group members, avoiding eye contact with the negative member and  talking to the negative member outside of the group can be effective ways in which a leader can establish a more positive tone in the group (Jacobs et al., 2012). Members of a group can become resistant when they are forced into joining a group.  George, from the Groups in Action DVD, discusses his feelings of resistance to participating in the group because he does not feel he belongs there. He is only participating as a condition of an ultimatum of his wife. Corey et al., 2014) discuss the value in allowing conflict to work itself out. By allowing members to opening discuss their feelings and concerns, many times the conflict will be resolved keeping the group intact. As demonstrated by Corey in the Groups in Action DVD, Involuntary members like George need to come to terms with the consequences of not participating and understand the benefits of doing so.  As other members such as Joel began discussing their feelings about George’s attitude of disinterest, George gained insight into how his words affected others. He professed that listening was a skill he needed to do more effectively.

            The key to a successful group is in it’s relationships. When people are put together unwillingly, their individual agendas can prevent relationships from growing."Jesus taught that rigid thinking is a detriment to relationships because we need to be responsive to others” (Baker, 2007, p. 63) Opening the mind and allowing feelings to be examined, allows for vulnerability resulting in growth. “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses so that Christ’s power may rest on me. (2 Corinthians 12:9)

 

References

Baker, M. W. (2007). Jesus, the greatest therapist who ever lived. New York: HarperCollins.

Corey, G., Corey, M. S., & Haynes, R. (2014). Groups in action: Evolution and challenges (2nd ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Inc. ISBN: 9781285095059.

Forsyth, D. R. (2014). Group dynamics (6th ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Inc. ISBN: 9781133956532.

Jacobs, E. E., Masson, R. L., Harvill, R. L., & Schimmel, C. J. (2012). Group counseling: Strategies and skills (7th ed.). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole. ISBN: 9780840033932.

 

 

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