Groups in the Human Services: Some Facts and Fancies

Abstract

SUMMARYMany misconceptions are associated with the use of groups in social work practice, especially by those practitioners who do not have a grasp of small group theory and leadership methods and skills. Historically, social workers have believed that collective behavior could change attitudes, give participants a sense of support and belonging, develop new knowledge, socialize behavior, and influence systems and organizations. The growing body of small group research, and research on practice with groups in social work and other professions, can remove some of the mystery and make possible more deliberate and definitive use of groups. Furthermore, a worker needs a commitment to values in the use of groups, and a grasp of the dynamics of helping the participants to make use of their group relationships to achieve their goals. We have the knowledge and skill at our fingertips to provide an instrument which many people in society are seeking.