I am quite pleased with the scope of topics presented in this issue, ranging from counselor training in groups (a frequently examined topic in this journal) to groups for school-aged members, and a practice article discussing intercultural conflict in groups. This lineup of research articles is particularly noteworthy for the range of methodologies and designs employed.
First up is Springer’s “Examining Predictors of Group Leader Self-Efficacy for Preservice School Counselors,” which surveyed preservice school counselors about the types of group training they received as well as their efficacy in leading groups. Bohecker and Doughty Horn also examined the topic of group leader training in their article, “Increasing Students’ Empathy and Counseling Self-Efficacy Through a Mindfulness Experiential Small Group.” The authors used a Solomon four-group design and found that mindfulness training could be beneficial for future group leaders.
In the third research study included in this issue, Shechtman and Sarig report on the use of client feedback in their article, “The Effect of Client Progress Feedback on Child/Adolescent’s Group-Counseling Outcomes.” This research included a randomized control design for school-aged members referred for behavior concerns. Finally, this issue includes a practice article by Okech, Pimpleton-Gray, Vannatta, and Champe entitled, “Intercultural Conflict in Groups.” The authors review interdisciplinary literature on the topic and provide evidence-based strategies for addressing sources of overt and covert intercultural conflicts in groups.
I trust you will find these contributions to be interesting and informative. Best wishes for the New Year.