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Behavior Changes in Psychotherapy Groups

A Study Using an Empirically Based Statistical Method

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Methodological problems in charting phases of group development have created a tendency to overgeneralize existing theories in the field. An extensive review of the statistical methods used to chart group phases notes two methodological traps that reduce the utility of prevailing methods. A statistical methodology is suggested to avoid these traps. The model proposed allows description of the natural unfolding of behavior phases without destroying the multivariate richness of a group's activity. Using a Bales-type observational system to code behaviors of two psychotherapy groups, sessions were statistically clustered according to their behavioral similarity. These clusters were compared to identify distinct phases of development. A clinical description was prepared for each group using only the results obtained from the statistical model. Although similarities were found, it was shown that different groups develop differently, according to their own particular sets of internal and external pressures, and that unique configurations of systematically specified factors characterize group development.

Small Group Research, Vol. 17, No. 2, 164-185 (1986)
DOI: 10.1177/104649648601700203


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