ABSTRACT
Psychological boundaries are an integral part of group processes. A novel evaluation method presented in this article seeks to reveal chronological boundary changes. Through the application of this method, the triangular relationships among the group process, the content, and the frame of reference are identified. A unique feature of this computer-assisted (Atlas.ti) analysis is that boundary shifts are tracked and quantified, allowing for specific qualitative exploration. The innovative use of qualitative thematic content analysis shown here, combined with the quantification of elements of the group process, can possibly provide group leaders with a framework for the conceptualization and identification of boundary movement in the group.
Notes
1. Written consent was obtained from all the participants that the group data might be used for research purposes. Anonymity was guaranteed, and all personal details whereby a person could be identified have been omitted.
2. The uniquely created term “directedness” was applied in a PhD study (see Viljoen, Citation2014, for full description). The term refers to whom or at what the dialogue is aimed or directed.
3. Key descriptions: ph = Parenthood; metaph = Metaphysical; norm = Norming; pid&d = Personal identity and disclosure; role = Role; rt = Random topic; teach = Teach; engG = Engage with group; relate = Relational; sd&es = Self-disclosure and emotional security; group = Group; a&fp: = Administering and facilitating participation.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Greyling Viljoen
Greyling Viljoen is a Clinical Psychologist in private practice in Pretoria, South Africa. Assie A. Gildenhuys is a Clinical Psychologist and member of staff in the Department of Psychology at the University of Pretoria, South Africa.
Assie A. Gildenhuys
Greyling Viljoen is a Clinical Psychologist in private practice in Pretoria, South Africa. Assie A. Gildenhuys is a Clinical Psychologist and member of staff in the Department of Psychology at the University of Pretoria, South Africa.