T-groups
T-Group Therapy
T-Group Therapy or Sensitivity Training is a psychological technique where group discussions are employed to assist group members increase awareness in themselves and other members. This can be used in various environments such as encounter groups and human relations with varied goals.
What to expect?
Each group posses its own goal and progress speed. The members who are a part of the group will all benefit from self expression and interaction with others. The goal of T-group is to cause a beginning in the social interaction, individuality and confidence in expression. The leader usually does not decide the topic of conversation, but the members choose what is going to be talked about since they will participate more and express feelings. As sessions go on each member of the group will gain self confidence initially and then self awareness. They will learn from the other members, exchange perspective and also gain insight and knowledge.
How does T-Group Therapy Work?
The sessions begins with uncovering an interaction that tends to spark interest and emotions in a diverse group of patient. In the mechanism of reintegrating individuals about the topic which is discussed, a group is created. During the sessions the conductor of the group is usually passive and will only be present to ensure that the environment is safe and comfortable for the members. Once the topic of discussion is decided upon, the discussion begins. The subject of discussion can be anything.
As the session begins, the freedom of speech and social interaction contributes to an intense and life-altering experience that stirs up the minds of those who were often sure of their own beliefs prior to the discussion. People often become sensitive toward the subject manner when they hear opposing opinions and experiences. They may get to know others with opposing ideas and sometimes try their perspective to understand their emotions and why they are adamant about them. The idea of personal growth of the group members before training starts is often heard. Most people who participate in the training are looking for a way to grow and learn in terms of interpersonal effectiveness. When the group is a representation of a company or organization it is quite likely that it will contribute growth and integration of the organization or the company as a whole.
When is T-Group Therapy Used?
T-Group or Sensitivity Training is usually offered by organizations as a procedure for people within a community to get acquainted each other and themselves for the purpose of acceptance and awareness. The subjects of these groups vary according to the goal of the group. The topic of discussion is not of importance but the proceeding of the discussion is of immense importance. Empathy is enhanced as the members try to understand and evaluate from perspective of others, resulting in developing group morale. It can also be applied toward multicultural and gender sensitivity subjects. Since each person within the group is participating, they can have a better understanding toward others and what they believe themselves.
Role of therapist:
The leader is the one who facilitates the group training. The leader of the T-Group is an individual who makes sure that the environment is safe and secure for participants. The participants should feel comfortable about coming to the group and expressing their feelings with other members. The topic of discussions during training are brought up by members of the group and the job of the leader is to encourage individual’s thought process throughout the sessions. Sensitivity training increases individuality and interpersonal communication, ensuring increased group morale and enhanced relationship among members.
REFERENCE
What are the goals of sensitivity training?. (n.d.).