Development and Implementation of a Psychoeducational Group for Ghanaian Adolescents Experiencing Parental Divorce

Abstract

This article presents development and informal assessment of a 10-week psychoeducational program designed for 8 adolescent group members experiencing parental divorce in a rural community in Ghana. Group design, cultural considerations, program implementation, and impacts are described. The literature review pertaining to group work as an instrument for addressing parental divorce of adolescents is presented; group format and content within group sessions are discussed. The outcomes of this experience, as evidenced by a brief assessment questionnaire given before and after the group experience, indicate that completion of the group led to an increase in participants’ knowledge of self-esteem, time management, anger management, peer relationships, educational goals, and psychological healing through spirituality. Implications for culturally informed group facilitation are discussed.

Keywords:

• adolescents
• cognitive-behavioral
• cultural adaptation of group interventions
• parental divorce
• psychoeducational

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Anthony K. Nkyi

Anthony K. Nkyi, Psy.D., is a lecturer, clinical psychologist, and counselor in the Counseling Center at the University of Cape Coast in Ghana.