Can a Structured Model for Group Intervention be Responsive to Group Process? A Proposal

This paper explores the common but complex challenge facing many social workers of using structured group intervention models while maintaining sensitivity and responsiveness to the group process. It puts forward guidelines for the development of both structured and responsive group intervention, based on our extensive experience in developing and implementing two such models focusing on the fathering of violent men and the mothering by abused women. First, we suggest incorporating into the development process of such group intervention a reliance on a continuous dialogue with members of the target population, group members and facilitators, while maintaining an evolving and flexible design. Second, we propose three desirable attributes of a model for structured and responsive group intervention: preceding action with understanding; modularity; and offering a choice of options. Finally, we present and demonstrate principles for the facilitation of such groups.