ABSTRACT
Cognitive behavior group therapy emphasizes learning and conscious cognition and the adaptation of newly acquired behavioral techniques. It is well-suited for mood disturbances and has been researched and evaluated in terms of effectiveness in generative group therapy. The group process includes identifying dysfunctional attitudes and distortions in thinking that create and exacerbate depression. The patients' ages range from seventy to eighty-five. All participants meet criteria for major depression and are on antidepressant medications. A geriatric group requires that the therapist be very flexible in conducting the group. Differences between supportive, insight-oriented, cognitive-behavioral and reminiscent intervention paradigms can create boundaries that are frequently blurred. Most patients in the group are socially isolated and interpersonally alienated, have limited interpersonal skills, and may have other difficulties such as some memory decline, hearing and vision decline, and gait disturbances. Regressive feelings related to dependency are seen in this type group and the group serves to help them feel connected and not isolated and alone.
