Group Leader Development: Effects of Personal Growth and Psychoeducational Groups

Abstract

The purpose of this quasi-experimental study was to compare the effects of personal growth groups and psychoeducational groups on counselor education students' (n = 74) empathy and group leader self-efficacy. Additionally, we compared the degree to which participants in each group valued: (a) cohesion, (b) catharsis, and (c) insight. There were no significant differences in empathy, group leader self-efficacy, or cohesion between the groups; however, members of the personal growth groups valued catharsis and insight more than members of the psychoeducational groups. Implications for group work educators and future research are discussed.

Keywords:

• empathy
• experiential group
• group leadership
• therapeutic factors

Notes

Note: Based on Wilks' Λ.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Jonathan H. Ohrt

Jonathan H. Ohrt, Ph.D., is an assistant professor in the Department of Counseling and Higher Education at the University of North Texas.

E. H. “Mike” Robinson

E. H. “Mike” Robinson, III, Ph.D., is a professor.

W. Bryce Hagedorn

W. Bryce Hagedorn, Ph.D., an associate professor, in the Department of Educational and Human Sciences at the University of Central Florida.