Group Work Reflective Account

2136 Words9 Pages
For the purpose of this assignment, I will reflect upon a direct observation which I planned, facilitated and actively undertook for a piece of group work. I performed this task within my placement. This piece of work gives me the opportunity to perform a reflective evaluation of the effectiveness of my practice with referring to relevant group work theory. DeRoos (1990 p 190.) defines reflection in practice, or reflecting in action, as ‘the conscious evaluation of action during the course of action.’ This means that one needs to pay attention to both one’s client and oneself. However, this can be especially challenging within a group environment. To help prevent such challenges within group work, it is therefore essential to have knowledge of group dynamics with an understanding of an individual’s intrapersonal dynamics. I demonstrated this by having a good rapport with the service users and holding prior knowledge of their diverse needs via daily contact prior to the group session. Moreover, it has helped me to understand my own personal emotions perceived when working with different service users and environments. (Furman, Langer, & Anderson, 2006.) W McDermott (2002) suggests that groups consist of at least two people that share space and a purpose. Groups are beneficial for improving a sense of self worth especially when done in partnership and this can prevent social isolation. (Preston-Shoot 2007). In addition, group work gives the opportunity for learning and trying new skills within a safe environment with possibly experiencing power. More importantly, it promotes self-reliance and helps build informal support networks with peer group members. In turn leads to individuals empowering each other within a group (Beckett C, (2006) My placement is a day centre aimed at providing day and respite care for families and carers. It facilitates
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