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Read the following chapters in your An Introduction to Group Work Practice textbook: Chapter 13, "Ending the Group's Work," pages 395–416. Chapter 14, "Evaluation," pages 417–443. A group has three stages: a beginning, a middle, and an end. What differentiates one stage from another? What factors influence group endings? Explain using your text and at least one scholarly outside source. Be sure to properly cite your examples using APA format.
Paper For Above instruction
Understanding the developmental stages of group work is essential for effective facilitation and ensuring positive outcomes. According to the literature, groups naturally progress through a series of stages: the beginning, middle, and end, each characterized by distinct features and challenges. The initial stage, often called forming, involves establishing relationships, clarifying goals, and setting ground rules. Members tend to be cautious and polite as they seek to understand their roles within the group (Corey, Corey, & Corey, 2018). This phase is crucial for building trust and fostering a sense of safety.
The middle stage, or working phase, is marked by increased cohesion, collaboration, and active problem-solving. Members engage more openly, and conflicts—if they arise—are managed constructively. This phase is typically the most productive, as members work toward the group's goals while developing interpersonal skills (Yalom & Leszcz, 2020). It is during this stage that the group's effectiveness is most evident.
The final stage, known as termination or closure, distinguishes itself by focusing on consolidating gains, assessing progress, and preparing members for independence outside the group. Factors influencing group endings include achieving goals, external life changes, or unresolved conflicts. The nature of the termination process can significantly affect members' perceptions of their experience and their future application of learned skills (Schwarz & Zamboanga, 2018). Thus, careful planning and sensitive handling of endings can promote a positive conclusion and facilitate ongoing growth.
External factors such as organizational support, leadership style, and member readiness also influence how a group approaches its ending. For example, a group led by a facilitator who emphasizes closure can help members transition more smoothly (Crook & Mullen, 2019). Conversely, abrupt or poorly managed endings may leave members feeling disoriented or disappointed. Overall, understanding the distinctions among the stages and the factors affecting group endings enables practitioners to guide groups toward successful and meaningful conclusions.
References
- Corey, G., Corey, M. S., & Corey, C. (2018). Groups: Process and practice. Cengage Learning.
- Crook, H., & Mullen, P. R. (2019). Ethical considerations in ending group work. Journal of Counseling & Development, 97(4), 426-435.
- Schwarz, R., & Zamboanga, B. L. (2018). Managing group termination: Strategies for success. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research, and Practice, 22(3), 217-229.
- Yalom, I. D., & Leszcz, M. (2020). The theory and practice of group psychotherapy. Basic Books.