Chapter 22 - Group Analysis and its Applications

Summary

Group Analysis is a particular approach to group psychotherapy as developed by S. H. Foulkes. Key influences and shared ground with other approaches are noted. This brief overview focuses largely on key constituents of the setting and format of group analysis as a psychological treatment. The group analyst, referred to as the conductor, and their dual roles of group administrator and group therapist are briefly explored. Vignettes show this therapeutic approach, in both therapeutic and non-clinical settings. Some key group analytic phenomena are illuminated as is the minimally interventive, analytical approach of the conductor. We encounter ‘John’ at three key stages namely pre-group preparation, joining a new group, and a preparing to leave the group. The conductor’s responsibilities are explored, specifically their intention to help the group develop a therapeutic culture, where dependence on the group conductor is replaced by a greater connectedness to each other. The conductor’s ability to trust the group to find its way is noted while their role in helping this process is not undervalued. Communication, both conscious and unconsciously is a central concern of the group analytic approach.