ABSTRACT
Ego strength of group members is a critical focus of theorists when assessing a patient’s appropriateness for group. Although conventional wisdom dictates having group members with diverse problems and backgrounds, Yalom (1985) suggests that homogeneity of ego strength is particularly important when considering group composition. Rutan and Stone (1993) essentially agree that members should possess similar ego strength when forming a new group; however, they believe that differences in ego strength can be an asset in more mature groups. Indeed, Kadis, Krasner, Winick, and Foulkes (1965) suggest that differences in pathologies and ego strength can promote group movement so long as we carefully consider how these intersecting personalities might highlight interpersonal tensions and difficulties that produce opportunities for working through and growth.
