Group cohesion in group-based personal practice. Issue 1 (27th January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Maaß, Ulrike; Kühne, Franziska; Hahn, Daniela; Weck, Florian
• Is Part Of: Behavioural and cognitive psychotherapy. Volume 50:Issue 1(2022)
• Page Start: 28
• Page End: 39
• Publication Date: 2022-01-27
• Subjects: personal therapy -- self-reflection -- self-practice -- therapist effects -- therapist training -- supervision; Behavior therapy -- Periodicals; 616.89142
• DOI: 10.1017/S1352465821000369
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1352-4658

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Personal practice (PP) is an integral component of many psychotherapy training programmes. It aims to promote personal and professional growth and is often conducted in a group format (g-PP). Group cohesion is one of the most researched mechanisms in group psychotherapy, but has rarely been studied in the context of g-PP. Aims and method: This exploratory study examines the associations between cohesion, satisfaction with g-PP, its impact on personal and professional development, and theoretical orientation in a sample of n = 329 German psychotherapy trainees. Cohesion was assessed with the group questionnaire (GQ-D; Positive Bonding, Positive Working, Negative Relationship). Results: Overall, participants reported high levels of all outcome variables. Positive Bonding was the strongest predictor of satisfaction with g-PP (β = 0.46, p <.001). While trainees in cognitive behaviour therapy reported significantly better cohesion scores ( d ≥0.31), trainees in psychodynamic therapy reported significantly higher satisfaction with g-PP and its impact on their developments ( d ≥0.30). Conclusions: Group cohesion appears to be an important factor in g-PP that should be actively promoted by group leaders. However, longitudinal study designs are needed to better understand the emergence of cohesion in g-PP as well as potential moderating factors.