Scapegoating: Dynamics and Interventions in Group Counseling

Abstract

Scapegoating in group counseling may be understood from the perspective of 3 levels of group functioning: intrapsychic, interpersonal, and the group as an entity. Intense scapegoating interactions tend to trigger defense mechanisms among group members. The article reviews a progressive 3‐stage conceptualization of group development that contributes to a more complete understanding of the means to initiate therapeutic change of the phenomenon. Various interventions outlined in the article can assist the group counselor in effectively responding to scapegoating in group counseling.

Applying Social Justice to Oppression and Marginalization in Group Process: Interventions and Strategies for Group Counselors

“…Having token members from a particular marginalized group often creates an inability to relate to others, which may increase those members' feelings of marginalization (Clark, 2002). With less diversity of membership, it is more difficult to create a safe and welcoming space for the discussion of issues like racial discrimination or homoprejudice.…”

Grupla Psi̇koloji̇k Danişma Süreci̇nde Çatişma, Çatişma Kaynaklari Ve Müdahale Strateji̇leri̇

“…Aynı zamanda bu liderler, kişisel değer veya problemlerinin danışanları ile çalışmalarında engel olmasına izin vermezler. Clark (2002) grup sürecinde günah keçisi bulma ile ilgili makalesinde, grupta geçiştirilemeyecek denli önemli kimi sorunların çözümünde, liderin kişilik özelliklerinin daha da önem kazandığını belirtmiştir. Grup sürecinde sıklıkla bazı üyeler kendi davranışlarının sorumluluklarından kaçmak için bazı üyeleri kurban olarak seçebilmektedirler.…”

Scapegoating in Group Psychotherapy

“…A related leader task is to point out projections and how a member's impression of another may say more about the subject than the object (Alonso, 1993;Clark, 2002). In essence, the therapist needs to mark "Return to Sender" on many group curiosities, thereby increasing self awareness and minimizing projective identification and scapegoating.…”

“…The scapegoat also may be familiar with the role, particularly with respect to one's family of origin (Rutan & Stone, 1993). For instance, the deviant may deny self worth or tender affects (Kibei, 1992), but unconsciously satisfy needs for attention by absorbing negativity and inviting attack (Clark, 2002).…”

“…• le . ea ily acces • (Clark, 2002). Either wa ' this unexamined exchange of externalization limits the safe 1 of the QTOup, dep!…”