Inclusive Group Work

Inclusive Group Work offers an innovative approach to working with intervention groups and task groups by redefining the concept of diversity and reframing core group work concepts. Appropriate for both undergraduate and graduate courses, this book introduces readers to the foundations of group practice with an emphasis on social justice. The book presents diversity as a relational concept that is at the heart of all group interactions. Individual identity is complex, and in order for all members to be treated equally their individuality must be accepted and respected. Using this framework, the book discusses the values and ethics of social work with groups, explores the stages of group work including planning, and presents both basic and advanced skills such as conflict resolution and the use of self. Theories are put into practice in three chapters of case studies that show in-detail how diversity can be employed as a strength in multiple settings to achieve the wide variety of goals groups pursue. Through this new approach, students and practitioners alike will learn how to harness diversity to engage and maintain participation in inclusive group processes.

Preface
Acknowledgments

Part One: Inclusive Group Work: Theoretical Foundation

Chapter 1: Fundamentals of Group Work
Chapter 2: History of Group Work Approaches
Chapter 3: Diversity: A Strengths-Based Approach
Chapter 4: Principles of Inclusive Group Work
Chapter 5: A Diversity of Purposes
Chapter 6: Planning a Group with a Focus on Diversity
Chapter 7: Ethics and Standards
Chapter 8: Group Development and Analysis

Part Two: Inclusive Group Work Practice

Chapter 9: Beginnings
Chapter 10: Leadership: The Difference Offered by the Worker
Chapter 11: The Middle Stage of Group Work
Chapter 12: Advanced Skills and Conflict Resolution
Chapter 13: Ending a Group and Evaluation

Part Three: Inclusive Practice Applications

Chapter 14: Trauma and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)
Chapter 15: Groups across the Lifespan
Chapter 16: Supportive Groups
Chapter 17: An Organizational Group

Epilogue: Imagining a World of Inclusive Practice

Appendix A: Sample Permission Slip
Appendix B: Group Planning Checklist
Appendix C: Icebreakers for the Beginning Stage
Appendix D: Sample Contract
Appendix E: Checklist for the Beginning Stage

References
Index