How (non)discriminatory are the Institute of Group Analysis and group analysis? An institutional ethnography study

Abstract

The current political, social and economic landscape in psychotherapy is permeated by neoliberalism and requirements for diversity and equality. Nevertheless, racism occurred in the Institute of Group Analysis (IGA). Using Institutional Ethnography, this study examined whether non-discrimination of clients, students and group analysts is nowadays a lived actuality. Unfortunately, a disjuncture between claims of non-discrimination and lived experiences was identified. Unconscious prejudices, hidden discrimination and neoliberalist affiliations perpetuate white discriminatory practices. Marginalized clients, students and group analysts remain outsiders, even though the PPP Working Group has made some positive changes. I suggested that documents should be revised, contemporary theory be included in diversity seminars and diversity frameworks be researched.