In this paper, I will provide an observation of a group session at the ACR Peer Center MH Day Program as part of my internship experience in social work. This observation aims to demonstrate my grasp of group dynamics and apply the concepts from the course excerpt to true social situations.
Group Details
I observed a peer support group, which was for persons struggling with drug and mental health problems. The age range of the target group varies, but they are typically grown-ups. The group is education and personal-growth-oriented, focused on guiding the individuals to form a social identity in the community.
Setting
The group goes through a daycare program approved by a project center of the Association of Community Rehabilitators peers. The location is extremely suitable and favorable to the participants for sharing and open communication. The ACR Peer Center MH Day Program is accompanied by a friendly area with flexible seats, enhancing the positive environment for this exchange of feelings and thoughts among participants (ACR Health, 2024). Lighting is, to some extent, ambient, and decor is kind to the eye, which combines a feeling of relaxation and a sense of security and builds trust and openness among participants. The room flow communicates individual self-reliance and group involvement, with some portions designed for group symposiums and others for individual reflection. In addition, the presence of trained staff is a guarantee that the environment will be friendly to emotional expression and social support so the sex can be accomplished maximally and continue to strengthen the sense of safety.
Leadership
The team is comprised of V Harris, the leader of CPS M.e.d and the main technical advisor. Harris noticed participatory leadership traits, like active listening, empathy, and facilitation of discussions, can be demonstrated. They can stimulate commitment from every individual and consequently produce a neutral manner. This is because they have considered all aspects of the given sentence and made necessary changes to make it more understandable. Though Harris showed much competence in this role, using a questionnaire has potential drawbacks. One is that the guidance being provided may not be crystal clear. Also, time may not be leveraged efficiently.
Group Behavior
Within the group, there is a common thread of supportive love, in which members are willing to talk about the difficulties and successes they have with each other. Speakers generally have unique perspectives and a rich range of experiences, mostly related to what they’ve gone through. There is minimal disunity and conflict as everybody can share this perspective. Group members tend to relate to one another because they are supportive, encouraging, and relevant to learned information. Furthermore, they exhibit respect towards a group leader and remain vigilant in discussions. Moreover, one abides by the rules set by Harris.
Conclusion
Observing the group session at the ACR Peer Center MH Day Program provides valuable insights into group dynamics and leadership within a peer support setting. It illuminates the impact of proper communication skills and the necessity for empathy and mutual support to achieve positive group interactions. This is the process whereby I get to see the stages a group goes through, and I know this will help a lot when I become a social worker.
References
ACR Health. (2024). Syringe Exchange Program. ACR Health. https://www.acrhealth.org/syringe-exchange/
write