ABSTRACT
This chapter is split into six sections, starting with some background and history into
how and why we use groups and their value. Section 2 will outline the benefits that can
be gained in whatever type of group you run. The success of a group lies to a great extent
in careful thinking and work in setting it up, as shown in Section 3. Sections 4-6 deal
with the dynamics that can crop up throughout the lifestages of a group – beginning,
middle and end. While this chapter is designed to help you spot, understand and work
constructively with and in groups, it is important to remember that groups are complex
and challenging and, as Nietzsche said: ‘Madness is something rare in individuals – but
in groups, parties, peoples, ages, it is the rule’ (1886, cited in Van Der Kleij 1985, p. 102).
