The Leader’s Illumination of Group Phenomena Hidden in Plain Sight: Why Is No One Talking About the Elephant in the Room?

ABSTRACT

This article discusses an important leadership function: calling attention to phenomena in group therapy that are NOT observed or observed but not commented on by group members. The article includes group scenarios that often generate member omission, ways to mitigate shame that can result from uncovering members’ blind spots, and misuses of this leadership function. Numerous clinical examples are provided. Concepts borrowed from attachment theory and interpersonal neurobiology help explain how the group’s internalization of this leader function may help the group become a more potent therapeutic environment. The limited contribution of neurological findings to clinical decision-making is discussed.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The author would like to thank Drs. Scott Rutan and Chap Attwell and Ms. Nancy Gans for their helpful suggestions.

Notes

¹ The object of the game of billiards, which has several variations, is to score points by caroming one’s own cue (white) ball off both the opponent’s cue (white) ball and the red ball on a single shot.

² I bill at the end of the month and expect payment within a month. I have explained in the pre-group evaluation sessions that I mention unpaid bills not to embarrass or humiliate but so there are no group secrets and because, in my experience, discussions of the feelings associated with financial transactions enrich the therapy.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Jerome S. Gans

Jerome S. Gans is a Psychiatrist in a private practice in Wellesley, Massachusetts.