ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION The previous chapter had a strong focus on the instructional part of psychoeducational groups. This chapter focuses on understanding what is taking place in the group as a whole and for individual members as the session unfolds. This understanding is critical for group leaders, as you have to be aware, understand, and respond as the session unfolds. It is easier to recognize what happened in retrospect, but the impact is lost when you miss it, fail to respond appropriately, do not identify the real or underlying issue(s), or remain blissfully unaware of what is taking place. It is also possible under these circumstances for members to be wounded, discounted, or ignored. Although these acts are unintentional on the group leader’s part, they nevertheless can have a negative impact on group members and on the group.
