demographics and therapy group culture 1
The therapeutic factors that are most salient to a therapy group can be based on group member demographics. As an example, the military has its own culture, which values resilience, tradition, and adaptability. Even branches within the military can have their own culture affecting attitudes, values, beliefs, and behaviors. In contrast, the Deaf community is a linguistic minority culture that emphasizes collectivism, open communication, and physical contact. These cultural aspects can have an impact on what therapeutic factors might be the most helpful, and which factors might bring little value to the therapy group members.
For this Discussion, select a culture (e.g., military, college students, ethnic group, Deaf community) with which you are familiar. Consider how the culture’s attitudes, values, and beliefs might impact therapeutic factors during group therapy.
With these thoughts in mind:
Post by Day 4 a brief description of the culture you selected. Then, explain how the attitudes, values, beliefs, and/or behaviors of this culture might impact therapeutic factors in group therapy. Provide examples to support your response. Be specific and use the Learning Resources and current literature to support your response.
References:
- Yalom, I. D., & Leszcz, M. (2005). The theory and practice of group psychotherapy (5th ed.). New York, NY: Basic Books.
- Chapter 1: “The Therapeutic Factors” (pp. 1–18)
- Chapter 2: “Interpersonal Learning” (pp. 19–52)
- Aguilera, A., Garza, M. J., & Munoz, R. F. (2010). Group cognitive-behavioral therapy for depression in Spanish: Culture-sensitive manualized treatment in practice. Journal of Clinical Psychology: In Session, 66(8), 857–867.
- Oei, T. P. S., & Browne, A. (2006). Components of group processes: Have they contributed to the outcome of mood and anxiety disorder patients in a group cognitive behaviour therapy program? American Journal of Psychotherapy, 60, 53–70.