Finding Our Difficult Way: Group X’s Transcribed Beginning

Abstract

Extensive passages from the recorded dialogue of intensive Group X in its early stages are the centrepiece of this chapter. The opening session begins with self-introductions by members of the group. The situation is novel to most, in having no predetermined agenda or clearly defined procedure. What the options are and what members want are aired and a marked diversity is quickly apparent. Participants are articulate, forthcoming, energetic and prepared to differ on whether the aim is to learn more about therapy or whether it is to engage in a form of group therapy or whether perhaps these could be combined or come together naturally. The chapter indicates that, along with some clashing of views, there was uneven movement towards increasing acceptance of or desire for a personalised level of exploration and learning. The group leader and organiser of the workshop came in for a good deal of flack, as he worked at facilitating while feeling pressure and some stress. “Butterflies in the tummy” were felt, as someone put it. Continued forceful and varied expression is seen to occur in Session 2, though with less anxiety. Some people were impatient with the idea of copying any model, and irritated by so much mention of Rogers, outside and in the group session, and there were other foci. The energy in the group was palpable, though the session wound down to conclude easily.