Mutually Perceived Therapeutic Relationships in T Groups: The Co-Trainer Puzzle

Abstract

This study provides added support for the theory proposed by Clark (1963), namely, that "the two-person interaction between members of T Groups seems to be the most significant determinant of changes in awareness and behaviour of individuals," and confirms the findings of Clark and Culbert (1965). Finding this therapeutic relationship and change present only in groups with one trainer, however, leads the author to propose that the presence of two trainers provides a different constellation of behaviours for participants to use as models. The author develops the case that participants develop less skill in engaging in relationships which are characterized by confrontation and mutual support when cotrainers are used.

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