ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the eight group factors that are commonly encountered features of group life. To focus on factors such as connectedness and belonging, vignette, interpersonal learning, gender relations, competition, envy and admiration, idealization and emulation, encouragement, can be of practical help to the group coach wrestling with the complexities of her/his work. The factors are derived from author's research into group factors that contribute to confidence and competence in group members. Over fifty years ago Kurt Lewin pointed out the inextricability of theory and practice in group dynamics, and the potential for group theory to offer highly practical solutions. Group coaching can offer opportunities for interpersonal learning that cannot be equalled in any other modality. The range of available interpersonal opportunities is multiplied, both for participation and for observation. The group coach must help the group's work by reinforcing behaviour that promotes learning, and commenting on barriers to effective working. Encouragement is both non-verbal and verbal.
