Description
This book offers selected clinical contributions to the theory and practice of group psychotherapy. It represents an earnest effort on the part of a practitioner, teacher, and editor of almost four decades to clarify many of the vague concepts and loose terminology still characteristic of this field. The evolution of orderly methodologies for the group therapy of hard-to-reach children, adolescents, and adults is portrayed, supplemented by vivid case illustrations. The aim throughout is to close the gap between theory and practice.
Dr. Scheidlinger begins by distinguishing group psychotherapy from “therapeutic” group modalities in mental health, as well as from the varied personal growth, training, and support group endeavors in the community. He goes on to discuss various theoretical issues. Such specific concepts as empathy, the “mother-group, ” leadership, and scapegoating are presented as building blocks for a future global theory of group psychotherapy. Turning to the clinical practice of group therapy with children, adolescents, and adults, Dr. Scheidlinger uses detailed clinical vignettes to illustrate the nuances of the treatment process. His chapter on the group treatment of women with severe character disorders represents an interesting percursor to the current preoccupation with helping people who suffer from primitive character pathology. Also included is an updated overview of the controversial issue of combined individual and group psychotherapy. The final chapter attempts to predict the directions of group psychotherapy in the 1980s, with emphasis on patterns of service delivery and on theoretical and research developments.
Focus on Group Psychotherapy is a book for all professionals who work with groups to promote change in people. It will be useful as a source of readings in group psychotherapy training programs. Moreover, experienced practitioners will find it stimulating in their quest for a broader scope in group psychotherapy.
