CHAPTER NINE DEVELOPMENTAL MODELS IN GROUP WORK The Practice of Generalist Social Work(2nd ed.)

Key Ideas Developmental models assume that groups change and grow in predictable ways. The group process can be viewed as a series of stages or phases. © 2011 Taylor & Francis

Boston Model’s Five Stages of Group Development Preaffiliations Members may feel ambivalent about joining the group Members want to share experiences but wonder if others will understand or relate Power and control Members may vie with others for control of the group Some members may feel they have more status and influence than others in the group © 2011 Taylor & Francis

Boston Model’s Five Stages of Group Development Intimacy Members become closely connected Members share coping strategies and develop relationships with one another outside of the group Differentiation Members value differences of perspective and can confront one another Separation Members withdraw from the group in anticipation of its ending © 2011 Taylor & Francis

Relational Model’s Five Stages of Group Development Differs from the Boston Model in that it assumes women progress through group stages in a different manner than those proposed by the Boston Model. The second and third stages of the Relational Model emphasize relationship building before conflict occurs. © 2011 Taylor & Francis

Relational Model’s Five Stages of Group Development Preaffiliation Members experience ambivalence about joining the group Establishment of a relational base Members build affective connections with each other Mutuality and interpersonal empathy Connections develop into commitment to mutual aid Challenge and change Differences are acknowledged and connections may change Termination Members finish work and separate © 2011 Taylor & Francis