From Social Group Work to Social Work with Groups

Abstract

Historical, theoretical, and political/economic conditions are involved in the shift in practice orientation from sociol group work to social work with groups. Criteria are proposed for considering group work to be social work with groups and to distinguish it from social group work and group therapy. Open-ended groups, single session groups, co-leadership self-help groups, and evaluation of group work are reviewed. Certain current developments, characteristics and gaps in group services are reviewed, and speculation on the future is suggested.