Facilitator Training Group Dynamics and Cues and Remedies

Why do we need a model? To help the facilitator avoid the negative group dynamics that can limit the success of a support group. A support group can operate with a will of its own and take the group down an unproductive path Sometimes a group can pull even the most experienced facilitator off course

Group dynamics What is a group? Two or more people interacting with each other. 2 = Dyad 3 = Trio = Work Group = Audience = Crowd

Group dynamics NAMI Family Support Groups are peer working groups of 10 to 15 people Ideally, support groups should be maintained at this size

What are group dynamics? Groups act and react as individuals do Groups have many of the same dynamic (interactive) problems as individuals If you understand how individuals react in certain circumstances, you can explain problems that arise in groups

Dynamic issues in groups Leadership Boundaries Rules Goals Subject matter

Problems caused by negative group dynamics in support groups

Problems in group dynamics Related to leadership Related to group boundaries Related to observing group rules Related to group goals Related to the group subject – mental illness

Problems related to leadership

Problems related to group boundaries

Problems related to observing group rules

Problems related to group goals

Problems related to the group subject – mental illness

What is the remedy for these problems? A capable leader Clear boundaries Stating and enforcing rules of relationship Clarifying goals and purposes Identifying the “common cause” in a positive and optimistic manner

Problem dynamics Challenges to leadership Negative group dynamics start to rule

Why do people go to a support group? To leave feeling better than when they came To feel that they contributed and that they were supported To feel that they have something in common with others

What do they want at a support group? A safe place To not be judged Boundaries that are enforced Capable facilitators

Encouraging a group to do its own work

You are present to help the group meet its needs, not to have the group help you meet yours.

A well-functioning support group Has a skilled facilitator Does its own work Involves as many group members as possible Encourages self-enforced observation of behavior guidelines

A well-functioning support group Allows group members to feel they have contributed Provides strategies Connects participants to resources and services Helps members feel they have benefited from attending

Strategies, structures and group processes This model ensures an effective support group meeting.

What facilitators need to know How to recognize cues indicating that there is a problem in group dynamics Which structure or group process to use to remedy the problem How to shift the group from where they are to where they need to go

Cues and remedies Each structure and group process exists to remedy a particular set of common negative support group dynamics Each strategy is designed to help shift the group smoothly and naturally

Identifying negative dynamics – cues and possible remedies – structure or process

Dynamics and remedies When you hear this cue: Someone taking too long during Check In Move to this structure: Agenda 1 to 2 minute time limit for Check In

When you get this cue: A “downer” meeting needs to be closed on a positive note Move to this structure: Agenda Closing

When you get this cue: People can’t stay in the present Move to this structure: Group Guidelines Keep it in the here and now

When you get this cue: The group or a group member is negative or hopeless Move to this structure: Principles of Support A principle can represent something we all can strive for

When you get this cue: Someone expresses intense feelings – emotional stage reactions of feeling overwhelmed, anger, grief Move to this structure: Emotional Stages Acknowledge that strong emotions fall within the predictable stages of emotional response

When you get this cue: Someone relates a traumatic event – violence, commitment, arrest, restraint, or traumatic loss Move to this process: Hot Potatoes A step-by-step way to address traumatic events and close the discussion of the trauma on a positive note

When you get this cue: A basic issue or question can be clarified by the group Move to this process: Group Wisdom Provide basic information or helpful and constructive ideas to a group member; share coping suggestions

When you get this cue: A discouraged person needs new options to solve a long-standing problem Move to this process: Problem Solving Moves person away from what doesn’t work by offering new/different options to approach the problem

NAMI Family Support Group facilitators Take charge when shifting the group and then step back to let the group do its own work Shouldn’t sound or act like therapists Provide a safe, nurturing place

What is the primary danger for facilitators of a structured support group model?

Not using the model structures and processes

Remember, as a capable facilitator, you are present to help the group meet its needs, not have the group help you meet yours.