This module will equip the learner with knowledge regarding group dynamics in a social care context. It will introduce the learner to various models of group development and to the concept of group stages.It will enable the learner to identify the various roles which both professionals and service users perform in groups and the ability to identify and respond to group conflict and to effectively manage conflict.It will enable the learner to recognise the importance of building and maintaining professional relationships and a partnership approach with both professionals, service users and their relatives/carers in group settings. It will explain the skills and techniques of effective group facilitation and discuss methods to improve outcomes and enhance participation of service users in care.
Introduction to Groups
History of group dynamics - Characteristics of groups- Functions of groups- Group norms
Models of Group Development
Examples of developmental models - Tuckman and Jensen’s (1977) model of group development - Peck's (1987) Model of Community Development - Fishers (1994) Model of Group decision making
Group Roles
Role identification and differentiation- role development- task and maintenance roles- service user and staff roles in social care settings- the impact of gender and ethnicity on group roles
Group Structures
Power structures - power in groups - responses to power in groups - the impact of power in relationships with service usersLeadership structures - models of leadership, effective leadership in social care practice
Group Facilitation
Types of group facilitation,- methods of group facilitation- role of the facilitator, - skills and competencies of the group facilitator- co-facilitation, facilitation of groups with service users - facilitating decision making and ethical conflicts
Group Conflict
Types of conflict in group settings- sources of conflict- responding to conflict- role of negotiation in conflict- conflict resolution methods
Specialised Groups
- Alternative approaches to group work - empowerment and decision making with specialised groups
Partnership Approaches in Group Work
Service user led groups- mentoring- co-working within service user groups- peer led practice- positive peer culture
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 50 |
| Formal Examination | 50 |