Growing the group: Neophyte conductors’ thinking on a group’s readiness for new members

Abstract

The aim of this study is to determine what might be behind the many recommendations in the literature to pay heed to a group’s readiness and preparation for new members. Specifically, it investigates whether there is potential for a criteria-based approach to assessment of a group’s readiness that can orientate a trainee conductor. It explores some of the literature on the topic from a number of perspectives such as the group’s culture, cycles of maturation, boundaries and unconscious processes. The research method used was a qualitative case study involving trainees and qualified group analysts. The purpose of the focus group was to explore and reflect on the conductor’s understanding of a group’s readiness in the advent of the first new member/s to a trainee’s therapy group. The findings indicate that the motivations and reservations of the neophyte conductor can play a significant role in assessment of the readiness of a group for new members. They also indicate that a criteria-based approach to assessment involving the readiness of the conductor, the group and the new member holds potential for the trainee conductor as a basis for the ongoing growth of their group. Further research might explore how a more mature group can be assessed for readiness for new members including the influence of the location of authority and what the conductor hopes a new member can provide for their group.