Although researchers speculate counselor-trainees who participate in personal growth groups as part of their course curriculum experience essential group processes and personal growth, there is a lack of empirical evidence supporting this claim. This quantitative study investigates counselor-trainee's perceptions of the therapeutic, developmental,…

The purpose of this study was to identify student growth factors during a semester long Master's level group counseling class. Results indicated that 12 growth factors accounted for 86% of the total number of critical incidents that participants reported as influencing their personal growth and awareness during the group experience. Two other…

The purpose of this quasi-experimental study was to compare the effects of personal growth groups and psychoeducational groups on counselor education students' (n = 74) empathy and group leader self-efficacy. Additionally, we compared the degree to which participants in each group valued: (a) cohesion, (b) catharsis, and (c) insight. There were no…

Describes a model for sequential stages of group development based on yogic chakra system. Compares chakra-based model with other models of group developmental stages. Using context of chakra system, specifies basic dynamic issues and leader interventions for each stage and discusses relationship of individual development to group process. (Author)

Uses knowledge about group developmental stages as an aid in diagnosing group and individual status and movement, in planning the course of the group, and in aiding its progress. (Author/ABB)

Understanding rhythms of different groups enables group leaders to attune leadership to the specific goals of each group. Rhythms are recognized in variations of action, assessment, and assimilations. Rhythm models of groups for personal growth, therapy, and training, and theoretical concepts and dynamics of each group type are discussed. (Author)

Examined effects of a structured learning time interval (SLTI) in growth groups on member self-esteem, perceived level of group interaction, and verbal participation in 81 undergraduate college students. Found use of SLTI had no significant effect on self-esteem, perceived interaction, or verbal participation. (Author/ABL)

Describes the author's experience of and reflections concerning a group workshop facilitated by Michael Tlanusta Garrett of the Eastern Band of Cherokee. Provides information about the Native American teachings and traditions of the four winds, balance, and harmony, and discusses the use of self by group leaders as a powerful therapeutic and…

Describes the circle group, a highly structured approach used to explore a theme for problem solving, personal growth, and teaching a specific personal growth system. The circle group is recommended for people who are basically mentally healthy. It may include group chanting, sharing of concerns and feedback. (JAC)

Sufism is an ancient tradition of experiential human development. Sufi human development specialists utilize the group setting as a major study format. Comparison with group counseling might broaden perspectives on the possibilities and pitfalls of group process, and pinpoint several important issues relevant to group leadership. (Author)

Describes personal growth group processes from a Jungian perspective. Assumes a conceptual framework for personal growth groups that uses constructs from Jung's theory of the individuation process in the first half of life (approximately before age 40). A 3-stage theory, with 18 testable hypotheses is proposed. (JBJ)

Presents recent research in developmental psychology that supports conclusion that understanding of dynamics of self-development within social context of group is necessary to curriculum development in ethics education. Suggests that group work is central to successful implementation of any ethics education program and that group discussion of…

Reviews 12 books in group work published in 1989. Includes treatments for both growth and remediation groups, representing diverse target audiences and a variety of approaches. (Author)

Describes a group for counselors, often reluctant to seek personal counseling, as one format for practicing counselors to enhance their own emotional health. Issues specific to a counselors' group, such as confidentiality, trust and dual relationships, roles, resistance and fears, ethical dilemmas, and some negative events, are examined. (JBJ)