Job and Employee Support Groups: Past and Prologue

Abstract

This article explores the nature and scope of support groups that focus on job and career issues. A review and analysis of such groups in single organizations, on the Internet, and in other venues is presented, as well as related writings drawn from both the support group and career development literature. Implications for career development practice and research are then offered. Although the purposes, structure, formats, and outcomes of these groups vary, when viewed collectively, they represent potentially helpful adjunctive support for clients who are receiving assistance from professional career counselors and developers.

Project failure from corporate entrepreneurship: Managing the grief process

“…individuals who experience failure to learn coping skills and gain the confidence needed to face new challenges (Caserta and Lund, 1993). Support groups exist in organizations to assist members with specific concerns from outside the work place that affect their job performance (e.g., alcohol abuse, marital discord, death of a loved one) (Kahnweiler and Riordan, 1998). Other support groups are offered by organizations to deal with traumatic events that occur within the organization, such as massive change efforts including downsizing (Esty, 1987).…”

A Sex-Expert System on the Internet: Fact or Fantasy

“…12 A recent review of online support groups for those seeking support for employment related issues described the groups as informal, unstructured, and not yet firmly established. 26 Closer involvement by professional counselors may be able to transform these news groups into reliable sources of employment assistance. Nevertheless, there are risks taken when a client relies on news groups and other anonymous individuals for support and information.…”

“…20 For example, technology that can provide acrophobic clients with a simulated experience of approaching a bridge and crossing it, is made possible by attaching computer controlled stereo-video goggles to a subject's head. 26 Future users of the Internet may have standard virtual reality equipment as part of their computer packages that would allow them to receive cognitive behavioral therapy.…”

Cybercounseling: A New Modality for Counselor Training and Practice

“…Several types of support groups, including transitional groups, single organization groups, and inter-organizational groups have traditionally been available to individuals; however, career counseling clients may now communicate with others using the resources on the Internet to form career related support groups (Kahnweiler & Riordan, 1998). The authors indicate that the Internet is a valuable resource for both clients and counselors, and that career support groups on the WWW may provide individuals with an innovative manner through which to discuss career goals, problems, and to generate resources.…”