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Abstract

As Horwitz (1977) noted, “Paradoxically, the very qualities and deficits that make the …patient a problematic group member are the same deficits that are often best treated in a group setting” (p.404). This is because group psychotherapy is the medium nonpareil for highlighting and ameliorating the associated relationship conflicts that these difficult patients have. It has long been known that patients with chaotic, amorphous, and fragile egos are suited to group treatment because of the diminished intensity of transference compared to individual treatment and the opportunity for patients to self-titrate the intensity of their involvement (Freedman, Sweet, 1954). The group has a social reality of its own which counteracts these patients propensity to regress. Members can be quite supportive to one another. Read more

Abstract

The authors show the utility of using two important concepts together – the Position Sequence and the Model Scene – in group therapy for young psychotics in a residential institution. [Model scenes are phase-specific metaphors; they persist over time and are referred to repeatedly by the group members]. A transition is observed from an initial position of non-differentiation, to a stage of partial recognition of differences among patients. In this second stage – called “self-reflectiveness position”- the patients begin to ask for appreciation and visibility, and manifest a greater awareness of themselves; this process is necessary to the individual’s development, but very dangerous for the unity of the group. The authors believe that the Model Scene takes on different features and functions, depending on Read more

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Model-scene and Group positions in a group of young chronic psychotic patiens

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