ABSTRACT
The primary objective of the psychodynamic group approach to treating survivors of widespread major traumatic events is to assist individuals in coming to terms with the unique and idiosyncratic meaning of the event to which they have been exposed. Treatment is indicated when survivors are unable to assimilate the impact of the event into a changed internal working model of self and other. The rationale for conducting this treatment in a group setting is multifaceted. The group format is the titration of the psychologically painful feelings that accompany repeated and exclusive focus on the traumatic event that typifies one-on-one psychotherapy. Understanding the meaning the story holds for the presenting group member involves identifying the thematic issue provoking the painful emotional experience. Therapists should persuasively explain to the group that the ways in which they are reacting to the traumatic event repeats or echoes aspects of a previous problematic moment in their development.
