| Abstract: | This paper presents the second stage of a study on group use in social work in Quebec. The first stage had identified 72 practitioners working with 130 client groups, and 60 of these workers participated in the second stage interview. The interview explored characteristics of social work practice with groups, and studied personal and organizational factors which may influence group use. The findings suggest group use in social work is characterized by a diversity of group goals, client populations and service settings. Most groups are small units formed by the worker. and their membership is closed during the duration of the group which is usually from 8 to 15 meetings. Structure varies, but most groups base program on discussion or structured exercises, and most workers assume a facilitator or therapist role. Despite these commonalities, there appear to be several distinct styles of practice which vary according to type of group goal, role of worker, and theoretical influences on the worker. These styles vary especially in the extent to which the worker takes a central leadership position or shares group tasks with members. |
