Groups For Adolescents, Research Paper Example

Groups for adolescents are formed to address various issues. Some examples of adolescent groups include drug rehabilitation groups, groups for unwed teenage fathers or mothers, delinquency prevention groups, and adolescent sex offender treatment groups. (Corey M., 2012) Adolescent groups may also be formed for teenagers of divorced families or teens that have been bullied.

Organizing an adolescent group is a series of steps, similar to adult or child organized groups. Before the group can be formed, a needs assessment is performed to identify a need for the group in a community or facility. A written proposal is created to outline the purpose, aim and procedure of the group. Marketing is done to raise awareness for the group in appropriate places and contexts. Before the group begins, informed consent from parents and guardians with permission for an adolescent to participate in the group must be obtained. Pre-group interviews with potential members are done to assess individual needs and determine if a group setting is beneficial. After members are selected for the group, the leader will need to design a plan for each of the group sessions. Finally, follow-up sessions need to be arranged for after the group has ended. (Clayton, 2012)

There are key points to remember when working with adolescents in groups. One is that co-leadership models can have very positive effects when facilitating an adolescent group. Role playing techniques can also be quite effective for adolescent group sessions. Leaders should also involve parents whenever possible. Another key point to remember is that there will be resistance; leaders need to understand and respect this. Group leaders should go with this resistance, not against it. Allow members to express their thoughts on being sent to group and explain the rationale of the group using jargon-free language. Establish clear boundaries and remain firm on those boundaries. (Wood, 2011)

References

Clayton, A. (2012). Groups for Adolescents. Retrieved July 24, 2012, from a-s.clayton.edu: as.clayton.edu/…/Groups%20for%20Adolescents–Chap.10.ppt

Corey M., C. G. (2012). Groups: Process and Practice (8th ed.). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole Cengage Learning.

Wood, D. (2011, July 11). Group Therapy for Adolescents: Clinical Paper. Retrieved July 24, 2012, from MH Matters: http://www.mental-health-matters.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=99