Possible group strengths
- Through group cohesiveness, a group’s members can gain a sense of belonging, respect and trust.
- A group is not dependent on the skills of one person. In a group it is possible for an individual to take on different roles. Each role will reflect how individual skills and responsibilities change with time.
- Because skills, experience and knowledge are pooled, there are greater resources to be drawn upon.
- Groups can support individuals, share problems and provide mutual help and encouragement. Groups give the opportunity for individuals to talk to others with similar problems and share their experiences.
- A group can be a safe environment to bring about individual understanding and development. Because individual behaviour, feelings and attitudes are greatly influenced by other people, group members can provide role models and reinforcement through mutual support and positive feedback.
- People may feel less isolated and intimidated than in a one-to-one situation. Shared workload and support networks.