Using and Understanding Groups

This work, by an experienced groupwork practitioner and lecturer, offers a sound general introduction to working with groups. The author covers:

group dynamics and the group process
the various groupwork methodologies such as transactional analysis, assertion and social skills training and Gestalt.
The use of groups in different kinds of health and social services agencies and in other settings
Common problems in group relationships

A list of organisations and full reading list are included.

The work has become a standard text for groupwork courses in all settings - nursing, education, mental health, counselling, social care and work and staff development work. It also offers a helpful reference tool for experienced groupworkers seeking to widen their understanding and areas of work.

Brenda Vernelle is a freelance groupwork consultant and trainer and a former Lecturer in Social Work at Huddersfield Polytechnic.