christian counseling today
Vol. 20 no. 4
21
interactions are perceived by others and discover new ways of
interacting when their current behaviors are not getting the
desired outcome.
n
Imitative behavior:
Groups offer modeling, by leaders
and other group members, of critical social skills—such as
sharing feelings, handling criticism or conflict, and offering
support.
n
Cohesiveness:
One of the most important healing
factors in any small group experience is for group members to
experience a sense of cohesiveness or belonging. This happens
when members feel acceptance and validation.
n
Existential factors:
Small groups can help members
see a “big picture” of life in terms of meaning and purpose.
n
Catharsis:
Groups provide a safe atmosphere to let out
deep emotions and painful experiences. Expressing emotions
in front of others and having those feelings validated decreases
levels of stress, tension and pain.
n
Interpersonal learning and self-understanding:
Small group members may have a clearer view and the ability
to learn when they see themselves in others or reflect how
others see them. These two factors overlap and interact, but
also provide an opportunity for increased self-awareness for all
group members.
n
Corrective recapitulation of family origin experi-
ences:
This factor most often takes place in therapy groups
led by mental health professionals. Family dynamics can be
re-experienced or “acted out” with leaders or other group
members allowing understanding and corrective learning of
dysfunctional family dynamics. This may allow healing and
changing of destructive behavior patterns.
… the healing power of a small group will be impaired if members attend without
a true desire to heal. Healing requires hard work, courage, time and commitment.
It is important to ask the direct question of potential group members,
“Do you want to be made well?”
