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6: Group Therapy: Stages of Group Development

DOI:

10.1891/9780826195043.0006

Authors

  • Pessagno, Richard

Abstract

This chapter presents the author's experience with group therapy, the key concepts and philosophy of group therapy. Groups provide a medium through which participants have the opportunity to bridge connections with others. These connections can reduce the sense of isolation and affirm a shared experience. The purpose of group psychotherapy is to provide members with an environment to address interpersonal, intrapersonal, and whole group issues within the context of a group. All groups progress through stages of development regardless of the type of group. These stages of group development track the group's progression and can determine the impact or outcome of the group relative to its purpose. These are: Forming or Orienting; Storming or Transition; Norming or Cohesiveness;Performing or Working; and Adjourning or Termination. The chapter provides an example of group therapy and the development stages via case studies.