Inside Group Work (Paperback)

Fiona McDermott

ISBN 10: 1865088927 / ISBN 13: 9781865088921

Published by Allen & Unwin Academic, Sydney, 2003

About this Item

Paperback. This text offers a guide to group work theory and practice in a variety of human service settings. Drawing on thought-provoking contributions from experienced group leaders and participants, Fiona McDermott outlines the various ways in which group work can be used. Focusi ng particularly on psychoeducation groups, psychotherapy groups, mutual aid groups and social action groups, she explains that the purpose of the group should determine the form it takes. The key facilitation skills of listening, observing, intervening and responding under pressure are outlined, but McDermott argues these skills by themselves are not sufficient. Rather, facilitators need to "think group" in order to be most effective. McDermott also explains the various stages groups go through, and looks at ways in which group facilitators can handle typical problems. She explores issues of power and leadership, and also the influence of gender, sexuality, ethnicity and age. Offering a contemporary reflective, context-based approach to group work, this introductory group work textbook is ideal for students in social work, community work, health, and welfare or as a professional reference. Drawing on thought-provoking contributions from experienced group leaders and participants, the book outlines the various ways in which group work can be used. Focusing particularly on psychoeducation groups, psychotherapy groups, mutual aid groups, and social action groups, it explains that the purpose of the group should determine the form it takes. The key facilitation skills of listening, observing, intervening, and responding under pressure are outlined as are the various stages groups go through and the ways in which group facilitators can handle typical problems. Shipping may be from multiple locations in the US or from the UK, depending on stock availability.

Seller Inventory # 9781865088921

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Inside Group Work (Paperback)
• Publisher: Allen & Unwin Academic, Sydney
• Publication Date: 2003
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1865088927
• ISBN 13: 9781865088921
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Condition: new

About this title

Synopsis

A valuable guide to working with groups for a variety of purposes in the human services. Its distinctive strength is the focus on 'thinking group' and on theory informed reflective practice. Grounded throughout in the rich experiences of 'group insiders', the book is both engaging and informative. Definitely a recommended resource for practitioners, students and educators.

Ros Thorpe, Professor of Social Work and Community Welfare, James Cook University

Group facilitation is a core skill for social workers, community workers, youth workers, health workers and psychologists. Inside Group Work offers a guide to group work theory and practice in a variety of human service settings.

Drawing on thought-provoking contributions from experienced group leaders and participants, Fiona McDermott outlines the various ways in which group work can be used. Focusing particularly on psychoeducation groups, psychotherapy groups, mutual aid groups and social action groups, she explains that the purpose of the group should determine the form it takes.

The key facilitation skills of listening, observing, intervening and responding under pressure are outlined. But McDermott argues these skills by themselves are not sufficient. Rather, facilitators need to 'think group' in order to be most effective.

McDermott also explains the various stages groups go through, and looks at ways in which group facilitators can handle typical problems. She explores issues of power and leadership, and also the influence of gender, sexuality, ethnicity and age.

About the Author

Fiona McDermott is Senior Lecturer in the School of Social Work at the University of Melbourne.