ABSTRACT
In this chapter Jayne Godward draws on her experiences of running personal development (PD) groups. She wants to clarify what the facilitator role really involves generally and during the life of the group at different points. Tuckman’s theory of group development is referred to throughout.
She identifies the difference between the PD facilitator role and other roles – e.g., therapist, assessor, teacher – to prevent confusion and asks trainees to think of what they need and expect from their facilitators.
The chapter covers preparation, beginning working with a PD group, encouraging participation and facilitating the group process. It looks at the facilitator role during conflict as well as at the ‘performing’ and ending stages.
