1-What form of resistive behavior (or difficult behavior displayed by a group member) would you find most problematic in one of your groups and why? How might you work in a therapeutic way with such a member’s behavior while demonstrating or implementing Christian values such as understanding and grace within the group?
Include at least one scholarly source to support your response. Cite any scholarly references accordingly using in-text citations and a reference list.
2-While conducting a group for adults struggling with addiction, one of the participants has come to the last three groups late. Explain how you might deal with this client’s tardiness.
Include at least one scholarly source to support your response. Cite any scholarly references accordingly using in-text citations and a reference list.
Respond to the next 3 with one source each
1-What form of resistive behavior (or difficult behavior displayed by a group member) would you find most problematic in one of your groups and why?
As a professional counselor holding group counseling session, difficult behavior by a group member that I would find most problematic would be an attack in front of the entire group, either verbally or physically. We are dealing with individuals suffering from addiction, in all different stages, and treatment can trigger unwanted feelings. According to Corey et al., (2017), even the most effective group leaders have went through situations with problematic members, and need not to engage in nonproductive behavior. An example provided by Corey et al., (2017), if a member yells out, “this is boring, I wish you would do something to make this a better group!”. Handling this scenario not with a defensive response, but ask the members questions to better understand the dissatisfaction such as, “what do you feel is missing in this group.” This will not only get a better response by the member, but show the entire group you are open minded and want to hear from the group.
How might you work in a therapeutic way with such a member’s behavior while demonstrating or implementing Christian values such as understanding and grace within the group?
Implementing Christian values while facilitating group counseling sessions, is vital by showing grace, understanding, caring, non-judgment, and open-mindedness. The example I used above, the leader not implementing Christian values could respond disrespectfully, closed-minded, lacking empathy as to why the member feels that way, with a lack of caring manner. I believe by utilizing Christian values, you can be more successful when working with members, and be more productive.
Corey, M., Corey, G., & Corey, C. (2017). 3F-EBK:GROUPS process/practice. Cengage.
2-What form of restrictive behavior (or difficult behavior displayed by a group member) would you find most problematic in one of your groups and why?
Regardless of what type of group is being conducted, as discussed by Corey et al(2018) throughout all chapters, being prepared and setting clear expectations for communication and respect at every is critical when addressing groups. Restrictive behavior that would be most problematic in a group would be passive aggressive behavior as well as an individual that has a continuous negative response to either the leader or another individual in the group, hence creating an unpleasant negative environment. Negativity as I like to interpret demonstrates resistance to make improvements to understand and create positive learning experiences this can be disruptive to others making honest efforts. Individuals that are passive aggressive create issues with communication within the group such that the communication no longer flows due to disruption of negative attention focused on redirecting the group member.
How might you work in a therapeutic way with such a member’s behavior while demonstrating or implementing Christian values such as understanding and grace within the group?
As discussed by Klein (2024) staying hopeful during times of trial and adversity, hope gives us strength to persevere as we face challenges. Hope is a fundamental Christian value as we know that God is faithful and trustworthy, he is always present and will not forsake us. On this same note, we must show empathy by making efforts to put ourselves in the the other person’s shoes and walk with them demonstrating this ability and compassion displays an opportunity for connection and understanding that is critical to build trust that furthermore helps others to see opportunity though it may not be as quickly as we would like to see progress, as long as the engagement continues in such a manner change or desire to learn skills will come with time.
Corey M. S., Corey G., & Corey C. (2018). Groups: Process and practice (10th ed.). Cengage Learning. ISBN-13: 9781305865709
Klein, C. (2024, April 13). How to behave as a Christian at work: A comprehensive guide. Christian Educators Academy. https://christianeducatorsacademy.com/how-to-behave-as-a-christian-at-work-a-comprehensive-guide/
3-Handling tardiness in a group therapy setting, requires a sensitive but structured approach. It’s important to address this issue in a way that maintains the integrity of the group while supporting the individual group member’s needs and challenges.
First, I would speak with the group member privately to chat about their tardiness. This one-on-one conversation would allow for an open dialogue without putting the group member on the spot in front of everyone. During the discussion, I’d try to express understanding of the situation and ask about any underlying issues that might be causing them to come late. Sometimes its common issues like transportation problems, conflicting responsibilities, or even personal struggles that make it hard to be on time.
In approaching the conversation, I would ensure to communicate the effect of their tardiness on the group as a whole. It’s important for all group members to understand how each person’s actions affect the group’s dynamics and overall effectiveness. This type of discussion should be had with empathy and a focus on finding solutions together, which reflect on the Christian values of understanding and grace.
Depending on the reasons behind the tardiness, we might explore some solutions such as adjusting their means of transportation, shifting responsibilities, or addressing personal problems in a more targeted way within their individual therapy sessions.
It’s important to reinforce the importance of group norms and the benefits of participating fully in all sessions. By setting and maintaining clear group norms helps in managing behaviors that can disrupt the group process. This approach not only supports the group’s therapeutic goals but also fosters a sense of community and mutual respect among members (Yalom and Leszcz, 2005)
Yalom, I. D., & Leszcz, M. (2005). The Theory and Practice of Group Psychotherapy. New York, NY: Basic Books.
