UNIT – I

Introduction to Social Group Work

The Group
Definition:
A group is a collection of two or more individuals who interact, share a common purpose, and
have a sense of belonging or interdependence.
Characteristics of a Group:

● Common Goals: Shared objectives or interests.

● Interaction: Regular communication and exchange among members.
● Structure: Defined roles, norms, and relationships within the group.
● Interdependence: Members rely on each other to achieve common goals.
● Cohesion: A sense of belonging and unity among members.
● Dynamics: Constantly changing patterns of interaction influenced by internal and
external factors.

Types of Groups:

● Primary Groups: Intimate, face-to-face interactions (e.g., family, close friends).

● Secondary Groups: Formal and goal-oriented (e.g., workplace teams, committees).
● Formal Groups: Structured with designated roles and objectives (e.g., school boards).
● Informal Groups: Unstructured and flexible (e.g., peer groups).
● Task Groups: Focused on accomplishing specific goals (e.g., project teams).
● Therapeutic Groups: Aim to address personal or emotional issues.
● Social Groups: Based on common social activities or interests (e.g., hobby clubs).

Functions of Groups:

● Socialization: Teaches norms, values, and skills.

● Support: Emotional and psychological reinforcement.
● Problem-solving: Provides collective wisdom and solutions.
● Empowerment: Builds confidence and self-efficacy among members.
● Cultural Transmission: Preserves and communicates cultural heritage.

Group Structure:

● Leadership: Provides direction and decision-making.

● Roles: Assigned or naturally assumed responsibilities.
● Norms: Shared expectations of behavior.
● Status: Differentiation among members based on contribution or authority.
2. Social Group Work
Definitions:

● Social Group Work is a method of social work that helps individuals in a group setting
achieve personal growth and social functioning through guided interactions.
● It is the process of working with groups to achieve common goals and fulfill individual
and collective needs.

Objectives:

● Promote individual growth and development.

● Foster social adjustment and integration.
● Develop problem-solving abilities and coping mechanisms.
● Encourage cooperative and democratic decision-making.

Values:

● Respect for individual dignity and worth.

● Commitment to the group’s welfare and development.
● Belief in the capacity for growth and change.
● Emphasis on social justice and equality.

Principles:

1. Acceptance: Respect for the uniqueness of each member.

2. Participation: Active involvement of members in decision-making.
3. Self-determination: Encouraging autonomy and self-expression.
4. Group Dynamics: Understanding and managing interactions within the group.
5. Purposefulness: Clear and focused objectives for group work.
6. Confidentiality: Maintaining trust and privacy.

Principles of Group Work According to Harleigh B. Trecker

Harleigh B. Trecker, a prominent social work educator, outlined foundational principles that
guide effective social group work practice. These principles emphasize both the individual and
group dimensions of social work. Below are the key principles according to Trecker:

1. Principle of Planned Group Formation

● Groups should be purposefully formed with clear objectives to meet the needs and
interests of the members.
● The composition of the group should align with its goals, taking into account members'
skills, interests, and compatibility.
 2. Principle of Specific Objectives

● Each group must have clearly defined and achievable objectives.

● Objectives should be developed collaboratively, ensuring that they reflect both individual
and group needs.

3. Principle of Purposeful Worker-Group Relationship

● The social worker's relationship with the group must be purposeful and professional.
● Workers should establish trust and mutual respect while maintaining their role as
facilitators and guides.

4. Principle of Continuous Individualization

● Each group member should be recognized as a unique individual with specific needs,
capacities, and interests.
● The worker should avoid treating group members as a homogeneous entity and adapt
interventions accordingly.

5. Principle of Guided Group Interaction

● Interactions within the group must be guided to achieve constructive outcomes.

● The worker should encourage open communication, mutual respect, and democratic
decision-making.

6. Principle of Democratic Group Self-Determination

● The group must have autonomy in its decision-making process.

● The worker should empower the group to take ownership of its goals and activities while
providing appropriate guidance.

7. Principle of Flexible Functional Organization

● The group’s structure and organization should remain flexible to adapt to changing needs
and circumstances.
● Roles, norms, and activities should evolve based on the group’s dynamics and progress.

8. Principle of Resource Utilization

● Groups should utilize both internal and external resources to achieve their objectives.
 ● The worker should help identify and mobilize resources, such as member skills,
community support, or institutional assistance.

9. Principle of Evaluation

● Continuous evaluation of the group’s progress, processes, and outcomes is essential.

● Evaluation should be collaborative, involving both the worker and group members to
identify areas of improvement.

10. Principle of Progressive Program Development

● Group programs and activities should be developed progressively to meet members'

evolving needs and goals.
● Activities should be designed to ensure that they are meaningful, engaging, and goal-
oriented.

3. Skills and Roles of a Social Group Worker

Skills:

● Facilitation: Guiding discussions and activities effectively.

● Conflict Resolution: Addressing and resolving disputes.
● Observation: Monitoring group dynamics and individual behavior.
● Communication: Clear, empathetic, and culturally sensitive interactions.
● Leadership: Encouraging participation and fostering unity.
● Evaluation: Assessing group progress and outcomes.

Roles:

● Enabler: Helping members achieve their goals.

● Mediator: Resolving conflicts within the group.
● Educator: Providing information and resources.
● Facilitator: Encouraging participation and open communication.
● Advocate: Representing the needs of the group to external bodies.

4. History of Social Group Work

In India:

● Originated during the colonial period, influenced by the charity and reform movements.
● Early social group work was linked to welfare activities in community centers, women’s
organizations, and youth clubs.
 ● Post-independence, it became institutionalized in professional social work education and
practice.

Abroad:

● Developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the United States and Europe.
● Influenced by the settlement house movement (e.g., Hull House in Chicago).
● Pioneers like Jane Addams and Mary Richmond emphasized group work in addressing
community issues and individual development.

5. Social Group Work as a Method of Social Work

● Definition: Social group work is one of the primary methods of social work that focuses
on using group settings to help individuals and communities achieve their social,
emotional, and developmental goals.
● Core Aspect: It integrates therapeutic and task-oriented approaches to foster collective
growth and individual well-being.
● Applications: Used in community development, therapeutic settings, educational
environments, and recreational programs.

UNIT -II

Group Dynamics and Group Functioning

1. Dynamics of Groups
Group dynamics refers to the patterns of interaction, behavior, and processes that occur within a
group. It influences how a group functions and achieves its goals.

Key Elements of Group Dynamics:

● Bond:
o Emotional connection or attachment between members.
o Strong bonds foster trust, cooperation, and cohesion.
● Acceptance:
o When group members feel valued and included.
o Acceptance enhances participation and motivation.
● Isolation:
o Occurs when a member is excluded or feels disconnected.
o Can lead to disengagement and reduced group effectiveness.
● Rejection:
o Active or passive exclusion of a member.
o Creates conflict and negatively impacts group morale.
● Subgroups:
o Smaller units within the larger group formed based on shared interests, opinions,
or goals.
 oCan be positive (diversity of ideas) or negative (division and conflict).
● Conflict:
o Disagreement or tension between group members.
o Can be constructive (stimulates growth) or destructive (hinders progress).
● Control:
o The regulation of behavior and processes within the group.
o Achieved through norms, rules, and leadership.

2. Group Membership

● Definition:
o Involves individuals becoming part of a group through shared identity, purpose,
or goals.
● Influence on Dynamics:
o Members contribute skills, attitudes, and perspectives that shape group
functioning.
● Types of Membership:
o Active vs. Passive, Voluntary vs. Involuntary.

3. Group Norms

● Definition:
o Unwritten rules or standards that guide behavior within the group.
● Importance:
o Norms maintain order, promote cohesion, and define acceptable behavior.
● Formation:
o Emerge through interaction, leadership, and cultural context.

4. Group Cohesiveness

● Definition:
o The degree to which members feel connected and committed to the group.
● Factors Influencing Cohesion:
o Shared goals, trust, interpersonal attraction, effective leadership, and success in
tasks.
● Impact:
o High cohesion leads to better communication, productivity, and satisfaction.

5. Group Culture

● Definition:
o Shared values, beliefs, traditions, and practices that define the group.
● Components:
o Symbols, language, rituals, and customs.
● Importance:
o Shapes identity, decision-making, and behavior within the group.

6. Group Morale

● Definition:
o The overall attitude, spirit, and satisfaction of group members.
● Factors Influencing Morale:
o Leadership style, group success, interpersonal relationships, and conflict
management.
● High Morale:
o Leads to motivation, productivity, and positive group dynamics.

7. Group Attraction

● Definition:
o The degree to which members are drawn to and feel satisfied being part of the
group.
● Factors:
o Shared interests, mutual respect, successful outcomes, and sense of belonging.

8. Leadership in Groups

● Definition:
o The process of influencing group members to achieve common goals.
● Types of Leadership:
o Autocratic: Centralized decision-making.
o Democratic: Participatory and collaborative.
o Laissez-Faire: Minimal interference; members take initiative.
● Functions of Leadership:
o Decision-making, conflict resolution, motivation, and maintaining group
cohesion.

9. Communication in Groups

● Definition:
o The exchange of information, ideas, and feelings within the group.
● Types:
o Verbal, Non-verbal, Formal, and Informal.
● Effective Communication:
 o Ensures clarity, minimizes misunderstandings, and promotes cohesion.

10. Relationships in Groups: Sociometry

● Definition:
o A method for measuring and analyzing relationships within a group.
● Developed by:
o Jacob L. Moreno.
● Key Tools:
o Sociometric tests and sociograms (visual maps of relationships).
● Purpose:
o Identifies patterns of attraction, rejection, and isolation.
o Helps improve group functioning and address interpersonal issues.

UNIT – III

Examination Notes: Group Formation and Group Work Process

Group Formation Phases

Group formation is a dynamic process that evolves through distinct stages, as described by Bruce
Tuckman’s model:

Forming

● Definition: Initial stage where members come together and get acquainted.
● Characteristics:
o High dependence on the leader for guidance.
o Unclear roles and objectives.
o Members are cautious and polite.
● Focus: Building trust and clarifying goals.

Storming

● Definition: Stage where conflicts and power struggles emerge.

● Characteristics:
o Members assert opinions and vie for roles.
o Resistance to group norms or leadership.
o Potential for misunderstandings and disagreements.
● Focus: Conflict resolution and fostering collaboration.

Norming

● Definition: The group establishes norms, roles, and cohesive relationships.

 ● Characteristics:
o Increased cooperation and trust.
o Roles are clarified and accepted.
o Focus shifts to group objectives.
● Focus: Strengthening group cohesion and productivity.

Performing

● Definition: Stage where the group works efficiently toward achieving its goals.
● Characteristics:
o High levels of collaboration and problem-solving.
o Members take responsibility and contribute effectively.
o Minimal supervision required.
● Focus: Achieving tasks and maintaining high morale.

Adjourning

● Definition: The group disbands after completing its objectives.

● Characteristics:
o Reflection on achievements and challenges.
o Emotional responses (e.g., satisfaction, loss).
o Plans for future collaboration or transitions.
● Focus: Celebrating success and managing closure.

Group Work Process

The group work process in social work involves structured phases to facilitate individual and
collective growth.

Intake Phase

● Purpose: Introduction and identification of group needs.

● Key Activities:
o Screening and recruitment of members.
o Establishing the purpose and goals of the group.
o Orientation about roles and responsibilities.

Study Phase

● Purpose: Understanding the group’s dynamics and individual needs.

● Key Activities:
o Gathering data about members and group context.
o Observing interactions and identifying challenges.
o Building rapport and trust.
Analysis and Assessment Phase

● Purpose: Evaluating the collected information to identify strengths and problems.

● Key Activities:
o Assessing individual and group needs.
o Identifying potential interventions and resources.
o Establishing priorities for action.

Negotiating Phase

● Purpose: Reaching agreements on goals and roles.

● Key Activities:
o Collaborative goal-setting.
o Developing strategies to address issues.
o Ensuring alignment between members’ expectations and group objectives.

Contract Phase

● Purpose: Formalizing group agreements.

● Key Activities:
o Setting explicit goals, timelines, and responsibilities.
o Documenting group norms and boundaries.
o Clarifying the role of the social group worker.

Treatment Phase

● Purpose: Implementing planned activities and interventions.

● Key Activities:
o Facilitating group activities and discussions.
o Addressing conflicts and promoting problem-solving.
o Monitoring progress and adapting interventions as needed.

Evaluation Phase

● Purpose: Assessing the effectiveness of the group work process.

● Key Activities:
o Measuring outcomes against goals.
o Gathering feedback from members.
o Identifying successes and areas for improvement.

. Termination Phase

● Purpose: Bringing the group to a close.

● Key Activities:
 o Summarizing achievements and progress.
o Preparing members for transition or independence.
o Emotional processing and closure.

Stabilization of Change Effort

● Purpose: Ensuring sustained progress and integration of changes.

● Key Activities:
o Reinforcing positive behaviors and skills.
o Connecting members with ongoing support systems.
o Follow-up to monitor long-term outcomes.

UNIT – IV
Types and Models of Group Work

1. Types of Social Group Work

● Therapeutic Groups: Aim to address emotional, psychological, or behavioral problems

(e.g., support groups, counseling groups).
● Task-Oriented Groups: Focus on achieving specific objectives (e.g., committees,
planning groups).
● Developmental Groups: Help individuals grow and develop skills (e.g., educational or
training groups).
● Social Action Groups: Address social justice issues or community needs (e.g., advocacy
groups).
● Recreational Groups: Encourage leisure and social interaction (e.g., sports clubs).

2. Models of Social Group Work

Remedial Model

● Focus: Treatment of individuals within a group setting to address personal or behavioral

challenges.
● Goals:
o Improve emotional and social functioning.
o Promote coping mechanisms and resilience.
● Techniques: Therapeutic interventions, structured activities.
● Examples: Therapy groups, addiction recovery groups.

Mediating or Reciprocal Model

● Focus: Interpersonal relationships and mutual aid among members.

● Goals:
o Foster a sense of belonging and mutual support.
 Enhance problem-solving through shared experiences.
o
● Techniques: Group discussions, peer learning.
● Examples: Support groups, self-help groups.

Developmental Model

● Focus: Promoting individual growth and skill development through group interactions.
● Goals:
o Enhance self-confidence and social skills.
o Facilitate personal and professional development.
● Techniques: Structured learning activities, role plays.
● Examples: Training programs, leadership workshops.

Social Goal Model

● Focus: Addressing broader social issues and achieving collective goals.

● Goals:
o Raise awareness about social problems.
o Mobilize community resources for collective action.
● Techniques: Advocacy, campaigns, and group action plans.
● Examples: Community service groups, environmental advocacy groups.

Consensus Model

● Focus: Building agreement and shared understanding among group members.

● Goals:
o Develop collaborative solutions to shared problems.
o Foster unity and cooperation.
● Techniques: Facilitated discussions, conflict resolution exercises.
● Examples: Mediation groups, organizational committees.

3. Skills, Qualities, and Roles of a Social Group Worker

Skills:

● Facilitation: Guiding discussions and promoting active participation.

● Conflict Resolution: Managing and resolving disagreements effectively.
● Observation: Monitoring group dynamics and individual behaviors.
● Communication: Clear, empathetic, and culturally sensitive interactions.
● Evaluation: Assessing progress and outcomes of group activities.

Qualities:

● Patience and empathy.

● Flexibility and adaptability.
 ● Leadership and decision-making abilities.
● Cultural competence and inclusivity.
● Professionalism and ethical integrity.

Roles:

● Facilitator: Guides group processes and activities.

● Mediator: Resolves conflicts and builds consensus.
● Advocate: Represents the group’s needs and interests.
● Educator: Provides knowledge and resources to members.
● Enabler: Empowers members to achieve their goals.

4. Group Therapy
Significance of Group Therapy:

● Provides a supportive environment for individuals facing similar challenges.

● Facilitates shared learning and mutual aid.
● Encourages emotional expression and coping strategies.
● Cost-effective compared to individual therapy.
● Builds interpersonal skills and reduces feelings of isolation.

5. Recording in Social Group Work

. Principles of Recording:

● Accuracy: Maintain factual and objective records.

● Confidentiality: Protect the privacy of group members.
● Relevance: Focus on significant details and outcomes.
● Clarity: Use clear and concise language.
● Timeliness: Record events promptly to avoid inaccuracies.

. Structure of Recording:

● Introduction: Overview of group purpose and context.

● Process: Description of group activities, interactions, and dynamics.
● Assessment: Analysis of group progress and challenges.
● Outcomes: Summary of achievements and future plans.

Types of Recording:

● Process Recording: Detailed narrative of group activities and interactions.

● Summary Recording: Brief overview of significant events and outcomes.
● Diagnostic Recording: Focus on analyzing group behavior and problems.
● Statistical Recording: Quantitative data on attendance, participation, and outcomes.
UNIT - V

Application of Social Group Work

Social group work is a versatile method of social work applied in various settings to address
diverse needs and foster individual and group development. Below is an overview of its
applications across different settings:

1. Application in School Settings

● Purpose: To address the developmental, emotional, and academic needs of students.

● Activities:
o Group counseling for behavioral and emotional issues.
o Peer group activities for developing interpersonal skills.
o Support groups for students with learning disabilities or special needs.
● Examples:
o Anti-bullying programs, career guidance workshops, and extracurricular clubs.

2. Application in Community Settings

● Purpose: To promote community development and address social issues.

● Activities:
o Organizing self-help groups to address local challenges.
o Facilitating discussions to promote social awareness and inclusion.
o Implementing skill-building and livelihood programs.
● Examples:
o Youth empowerment groups, disaster management training, and neighborhood
improvement initiatives.

3. Application in Health Settings

● Purpose: To provide support and improve the psychosocial well-being of patients and
caregivers.
● Activities:
o Therapy groups for chronic illness or mental health conditions.
o Support groups for caregivers and families.
o Health education and awareness campaigns.
● Examples:
o Cancer survivor groups, diabetes management workshops, and stress-relief
programs.
 4. Application in Family Welfare Settings

● Purpose: To strengthen family relationships and promote well-being.

● Activities:
o Parenting skill workshops.
o Support groups for families dealing with challenges like divorce, substance abuse,
or domestic violence.
o Counseling and conflict resolution sessions.
● Examples:
o Family planning education, foster care support groups, and marital counseling
sessions.

5. Application in Industrial Settings

● Purpose: To improve employee welfare and organizational productivity.

● Activities:
o Group activities to enhance teamwork and communication.
o Stress management and work-life balance programs.
o Conflict resolution and leadership development workshops.
● Examples:
o Employee assistance programs (EAPs), training for workplace diversity, and
safety awareness campaigns.

6. Application in Women Welfare and Child Care Settings

● Purpose: To empower women and protect the rights and well-being of children.
● Activities:
o Self-help groups for women to promote economic independence.
o Awareness campaigns on gender equality and child rights.
o Group counseling for victims of abuse or violence.
● Examples:
o Microfinance groups, child development workshops, and shelters for abused
women and children.

7. Application in Correctional Settings

● Purpose: To rehabilitate offenders and promote reintegration into society.

● Activities:
o Group therapy to address behavioral and psychological issues.
o Vocational training and skill-building programs.
o Peer support groups to reduce recidivism.
● Examples:
o Anger management programs, substance abuse rehabilitation groups, and literacy
classes for inmates.