The article aims to advance the use of qualitative research methods to understand group work. The first part of this article situates the use of qualitative research methods in relationship to group work research. The second part examines recent qualitative group work research using a framework informed by scoping and systematic review methods and…

This article provides a primer for researchers exploring ethical issues in the research of group work. The article begins with an exploration of relevant ethical issues through the research process and current standards guiding its practice. Next, the authors identify resources that group work researchers can consult prior to constructing their…

Measures that accurately capture the phenomenon are critical to research and practice in group work. The vast majority of group-related measures were developed using the reflective measurement model rooted in classical test theory (CTT). Depending on the construct definition and the measure's purpose, the reflective model may not always be the…

A stress prevention and mindfulness (SPAM) group is described, which is a 6-week psychoeducational and support group for teachers. The group incorporated psychoeducation about stress and utilized elements of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). The group was implemented in a public charter school in the Southwest. Preliminary evaluation…

Drawing on the existing literature, the authors' research and clinical experiences, and the first author's personal journey as a member and leader of the transgender community, this article offers a brief history of group work with transgender clients followed by suggestions for group work with transgender clients from a social justice…

This article describes "courageous conversations" in social justice group work and a continuum of action for social justice interventions. It analyzes themes from 20 contributions to 2 consecutive special issues of "The Journal for Specialists in Group Work" on social justice group work. Implications for future development in group leadership and…

The qualitative inquiry describes the personal experiences of 15 master's level counselors-in-training who participated in an experiential personal growth group as an adjunct to their group counseling course. This study explored how counselors-in-training make meaning of their personal growth group experiences as well as how they perceive the…

With an increasing older population and need for institutionalization care, the demand for group work in long-term care (LTC) is increasing. Group therapy can be utilized as a strength-based model, providing socialization and cognitive stimulation with the goal of increasing overall psychological well being for LTC residents. The present article…

Implications for group composition are discussed in this article, in which the outcome literature on mixed-sex versus same-sex groups is reviewed. (Author)

Describes the role that group workers can play in program evaluation. Encourages people who are skilled conducting groups to apply their skills to program evaluation. Discusses the competencies and preparation necessary to function in the combined roles of evaluator and group worker. (Author/ABB)

Despite an appropriate screening process, the potential for a misdiagnosed multiple personality to be included in a group is much higher than most therapists realize. Describes one long-term group's experience with the emergence of two multiple personalities. Explores critera for assessing whether such a person should remain in the group.…

Presents a synopsis of moral development stages and the rationale for considering the significance of moral stages in group member selection. Moral growth should be facilitated during the productive phase of group process in which members deal with their differences, rather than ignore them. (Author/BEF)

College students (N=64), divided into 10 groups, completed the Personal Anticipations Questionnaire prior to group experience, Group Attitude Scale several times during group experience, and Group Satisfaction Scale following group experience. Results showed that group member expectations were related to group cohesion or attraction to group.…

Presents results of a study of eight leaderless groups. Findings included a serendipitous forming process, minimal norming, a support system extending beyond the group, a spontaneous and flexible group process, and unresolved issues. Focus and purpose of the groups were found to be the factors that have changed over time. Discusses results in…

Examined effects of leader versus member deliverer status, member defensiveness level, and group development stage on corrective feedback acceptance among 36 graduate students in counseling who participated in training groups emphasizing counseling skill development and personal growth. Although measures of acceptance discriminated between levels…