Group Observation Essay Example

identifying and changing elements of their belief system (world view, self-concept) and cognitive distortions (errors in reasoning such as catastrophic thinking) that lead to negative automatic thoughts. This empowers clients by teaching them to consider a variety of alternative explanations for the cause of an event, helping them reframe problems in behavioral terms to give clients some control over them, and developing strategies for dealing with fearful possibilities. BT intervention methods include relaxation techniques to reduce negative thoughts and emotions, activity scheduling to increase positive emotions and control, homework and graded task assignments which involve increasing levels of difficulty to achieve goals, and role play and rehearsal to explore and practice new behaviors and roles to be used in the real world. Clients are taught self-monitoring techniques where they record information about a target behavior and stimulus control.The alteration or removal of a stimulus-response connection in order to increase or eliminate a desired response (Fraum, 2011). I observed the counselor using these interventions during the group. One of the goals of the group is to prevent reoffenses. When the group started, the first thing the counselor asked was if any members had any "Red Flags" during the week. The Red Flag serves as a form of self-monitoring technique, indicating when a member is in a dangerous situation and must stop their behavior or leave the area. A few members shared their experiences and how they solved the problem. The group was in the working phase. One topic for discussion was why a member had failed a mandatory polygraph test, and the member revealed a reaction to the words child pornography. Seven members provided feedback. According

to Corey, Corey, & Corey (2010), during the working phase, members trust each other, goals are clear and specific, individuals feel comfortable contributing to others' work, there is a willingness to share vulnerable information, feedback is given and accepted without defensiveness, members feel hopeful, there is an awareness of the group process, communication is clear and direct, and the focus is on the present moment. The group exhibited these characteristics and more.