Used meta-analysis to examine duration of group experience and structure provided by leader in counseling groups from 26 studies. Group composition appeared to have greatest effect in unstructured group which was relatively long in duration. Leaders using short-term, structured groups may be less concerned with composition, as its potential effect…

All groups have the same amount of structure. There are basically six elements of group structure. They are membership, members, and leaders; physical structure, group quarters, and member arrangements; time; activities; norms and interaction patterns; and purposes, goals, and objectives. The article explores these components. (Author/CMG)

The opening session of a group presents special problems for the group leader. Focuses on structured activities which can serve to reduce these early negative reactions and promote feelings of security, identity, and belongingness in the group members. (Author)

Advocates at least a modicum of counselor structure for effective group functioning. Helping the group define goals and set limits provides the membership with a sense of purpose and assists individuals toward the achievement of those goals. (Author)

Provides a rationale for the use of mental imagery as a primary counseling process in structured small group experiences. This purpose is based on assertions that mental imagery can facilitate client learning. (Author)

Presents the various stages of the group process in terms of developmental tasks that pinpoint the relationship between process and structure. The tasks provide a conceptual foundation for use of group techniques by identifying specific purposes in group development. (Author)

This guide is written for beginning and advanced social work students, as well as battle-weary social workers. It instructs practitioners in how to do social work with groups and how to integrate small-group theory and therapeutic principles in such a way that is therapeutic and life enhancing. The wide-ranging concepts and skills presented here…

Discusses some current attempts to redefine the concept of group cohesion, and examines studies designed to manipulate factors hypothesized to enhance cohesion. Concludes with suggestions for more systematic and potentially fruitful research. (Author)