Conflict Management in Group Psychotherapy

Abstract

This article combines theoretical material and the author's experience in a discussion of conflict and its management in group psychotherapy. The author emphasizes that conflict is an inevitable and important factor in group development. Particular emphasis is placed on the therapist's ability to manage group conflict and how this ability is communicated to the group members. Techniques that aid in the highlighting and resolution of conflict situations are discussed, accompanied by illustrations of group situations arising from the author's practice. Cited in the article is some of the literature discussing the sources and importance of conflicts in groups, conflict related to group development theory, transference and the role of the group leader in managing conflict, the group contract, and resistance.