When developing in therapy
groups go through several stages and procedures. In this situation, the first meeting depicted in the film reveals the beginning stage. The first step of group formation, according to Yalom and Leszcz (2005), begins during the beginning stage. Individuals are frequently silent during this time, which prevents them from expressing themselves. At the same time, they are afraid of being rejected. This explains the members' reluctance to express themselves. Furthermore, they find little value in the counseling sessions. Gemma, for example, shows her discontent with group treatment. She explains that she does not understand the group's purpose (Psychotherapy, 2011). At the same time, the members are demonstrating an increased interest in other activities occurring outside the group. For example, Brian is considering attending parties and spending time in clubs having fun, an activity that may undermine his abstinence.
The group soon evolves and enters the second stage
This stage is characterized by conflict, hostility, resistance, and judgmental attitudes (Yalom & Leszcz, 2005). These features are particularly prominent in the group under review. For instance, when Brian confesses to hitting his girlfriend while he was drunk, Amber adopts a judgmental attitude, and calls him disgusting (Psychotherapy, 2011). Similar reactions are also evident in Horace and Sabina. The group then graduates to the third stage, which is characterized by cohesiveness and trust. The various members of the group things about themselves they had been unwilling to share with the group. This gives the group a sense of togetherness as they all come to the realization that they need to help each other. The members have also gotten closer, a fact evident in the remorse they feel towards Brian's relapse and the sadness they feel because Jimmy has to leave after completing his treatment plan,.
Two main curative factors are evident in the group
First universality becomes apparent after the members share their secrets and experiences. After Jimmy speaks about his addiction, Louise and Gemma also express their own experiences with alcohol addiction. This encourages Brian to tell his story, which he begins by saying that everyone has done things they are not proud of. Universality aided in their progress because it helps the members feel that they are other people going through similar experiences. This not only offers relief but also allows individuals to explore their experiences and actions in greater depth (Yalom & Leszcz, 2005).
Another factor is group cohesiveness. As mentioned earlier, the group's members eventually bonded and developed a significant level of trust. This factor influences the member's progress as it creates an environment that allows them to share their feelings and experiences (Schneider, Corey G. & Corey C., 2016). It also creates support, acceptance and a sense of belonging, which are critical to the member's treatment.
There was evidence of intra-group conflict in the video under study
For example, Mark gets cross with Amber, calling her a negative individual. Other members of the group chime in and stark to attack her (Psychotherapy, 2011). One strategy of dealing with this conflict is to express differences. This is particularly beneficial because it allows people to express their views. A group leader can do this to ensure that he remain objective as opposed to taking a side (Reid, 2014). Another strategy is monitoring communications, which helps the leader create understanding in the group. Finally, constructive confrontations are also a good way of dealing with conflict. They help promote understanding, hence de-escalating conflicts.
References
Reid, K. E. (2014). Conflict management in group treatment: "Get out of my face, you S.O.B!" In J. Parry (ed.) From prevention to wellness through group work. New York: Routledge.
Psychotherapy.net (Producer). (2011). Group therapy: A live demonstration. [Video]. Mill Valley: Author.
Schneider, M. Corey, G. & Corey, C. (2016). Groups: Process and practice. Boston: Cengage Learning.
Yalom, I.D. & Leszcz, M. (2005). The theory and practice of group psychotherapy (5th ed.). New York: basic Books.
