Compare task groups versus educational, support, or skills groups.
Describe a type of treatment group you would facilitate as a social worker.
Explain what professional role you may take when facilitating this group.
Describe what is meant by group norms, and explain how you would help shape these norms based on your role in the group.
Explain what is meant by group roles. Identify at least one group role, and explain why a group member may take that role.
Describe a group member role that might be most challenging to you as a group leader, and explain why.
Groups versus educational, support, or skills groups.
Full Answer Section
Group norms are the unwritten rules that govern how the group operates. They can be about anything from how to address each other to how to disagree respectfully. I would help to shape the group norms by discussing them with the members at the beginning of the group. I would also be clear about my expectations for the group and how I would enforce the norms.
Group roles are the different ways that members contribute to the group. Some common group roles include:
- Leader: The leader is responsible for facilitating the group and keeping the discussion on track.
- Supporter: The supporter provides emotional support to other members of the group.
- Challenger: The challenger helps to keep the group focused on the task and to challenge other members' thinking.
- Observer: The observer watches the group process and provides feedback to the group.
Sample Answer
here are the comparisons between task groups versus educational, support, or skills groups:
Here is a type of treatment group that I would facilitate as a social worker:
Task groups | Educational, support, or skills groups |
---|---|
The goal of task groups is to achieve a specific task or objective. | The goal of educational, support, or skills groups is to help members enhance their educational, emotional, or skill sets. |
Task groups are often short-term and have a clear end goal. | Educational, support, or skills groups can be short-term or long-term, and the end goal may be more general, such as improving coping skills or increasing self-esteem. |
Task groups are often focused on problem-solving and decision-making. | Educational, support, or skills groups are often focused on providing information, education, or skills training. |
Task groups may be led by a professional, such as a social worker, or by a group member. | Educational, support, or skills groups are often led by a professional, such as a social worker, counselor, or therapist. |
- A group for people with anxiety disorders. This group would provide members with information about anxiety disorders, coping skills, and relaxation techniques. The group would also provide a supportive environment where members could share their experiences and learn from each other.