ABSTRACT
The Theory of the Invisible Group is an integrational systems theory that spells out the structure and function of individual and group dynamics as two discrete but related systems. Invisible group theory is “invisible” in that unconscious dynamics are deduced. It is a system theory in that these “invisible” dynamics that manifest in group and individual behaviour are conceptualized as hierarchically and isomorphically related systems, which are goal-directed and self-correcting. It is important to understand that this is a non-Aristotelian, hierarchical abstraction and has absolutely nothing to do with the real, visible people in the real, visible groups. It is a discipline of systematic thinking intended to provide the group therapist with a frame of reference that will help him to understand and explain what happens in a group more simply and more usefully than he could without it. Higher-status members spoke to other higher-status members, lower-status members spoke to higher-status members, and occasionally there was some sanctioned lower-status interaction.
