The purpose of this paper was to (1) identify the Pioneer of the Group Encounter Movement, and (2) expose and clarify some of the ambiguities, contradictions and backbiting evident in the Group Encounter Field. The origins of the group encounter movement are examined with a particularly strong emphasis on J. L. Moreno and his introduction of…

Describes and discusses the benefits to young children and their parents of developing parent discussion groups, led by psychological consultants, as an adjunct to child care programs. (ED)

A pilot support group established at Boston City Hospital deals with the personal and professional issues arising from stresses of internship. This report describes the functioning of this group, including a statement of goals, content of weekly meetings, and evaluation by group members. (Author/LBH)

Knowledge of sexual behavior, modifying attitudes that block understanding of sexuality, and developing skills for the evaluation and management of sexual problems were the objectives of a sex education program for medical students at the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine. (Editor/LBH)

Describes a public library outreach program for institutionalized senior citizens, including the rationale, local environment, management of the program, and individual literacy discussion sessions. The many positive results both to the participants and to the library are described. An annotated list of materials tested in several group situations…

This description of the activities of the Teachers of Children's Literature Discussion Group of the American Library Association highlights a newsletter, distribution of course syllabi, conference programs, and the findings of a survey of group members. The survey questionnaire covered basic emphases, teaching methods, satisfactions, problems, and…

The academic achievement of health sciences students whose discussion group was led by staff teachers was compared with those whose group was led by peers. Higher achievement was found in the staff-led group, but there was no difference in achievement in groups led by high-achieving and average-achieving students. (MSE)

The literature program promotes students' language development, positive self-concept, and mental health skills through fluent communication with a deaf student adviser leading weekly discussion/storytelling for students from kindergarten through high school. Teachers report, among other positive effects, that the deaf educator is an excellent…

This paper describes a community outreach program that is aimed at mothers of preschool children for the purposes of primary and secondary prevention of mental illness. The goals of the group meetings are to expand the mothers' problem-solving capacities and share child-rearing experiences. The groups are lead by health care professionals. (NG)

If you are looking for a book that provides concrete advice for establishing group reflection, then "Talking Teaching" is the perfect choice. The work is the product of a 3-year grant-supported induction year program. College faculty from an associated group of colleges joined staff developers from a growing suburban district in creating an entire…

Describes some of the common elements in activities of non-therapeutic groups (such as Synanon Recovery, etc.) and suggests kinds of persons most likely to be helped by them. (CJ)