Wood, Margaret2024-08-152024-08-1519741974https://hdl.handle.net/1828/20189The term "encounter group" was examined in the liter­ature in terms of its methods, processes and outcomes. In spite of the diversity of techniques, theoretical positions, and leadership styles, it was possible to identify certain characteristics common to all such groups. These were their small size (usually six to twelve members); the members are usually the "normals" of our population, not judged to be emotionally "sick"; the group is relatively unstructured; it uses the feelings and interactions of group members as the focus of interaction; value is placed on openness, honesty, and the expression of emotion; and the principal purpose is to promote personal growth and the development of human potential. The chief encounter technologies were identified and described in eleven categories. The meaning of "encounter" was traced in the philosophy of dialogue of Hartin Buber. He expressed the need of modern man "to be a person again," to establish genuine dialogue between man and man, and he described in detail the I-Thou relationship through which real communication is established. This philosophy the encounter movement has embraced. The historical roots of the encounter group were traced from the first T-group meeting at Bethel, Maine, in 1947, through the period of rapid expansion and experimentation in the 1960's to the present time of assessment and consolida­tion. The influences on the encounter movement from the various fields of therapy were examined, and Moreno's work in psychodrama was described as the most pervasive influence on encounter techniques. Finally, current research on encounter groups was inves­tigated in an effort to assess their value and effectiveness. Special attention was given to the issues of leadership, hazards, and outcomes of groups. It was found that encounter groups have only limited effectiveness as agents of change, though the successfulness of groups varied greatly; and under some kinds of leadership groups can be dangerous. In order to improve the effectiveness of groups there needs to be a better definition of how people change and of the requisite techniques to achieve this end. However, such groups were found to be highly successful in providing members with a brief, intense, generally enjoyable experience; a feeling of warmth, intimacy, and closeness with others. As such they were seen to provide an escape from the modern curse of loneliness and alienation. The encounter group, thus defined, and its value and effectiveness assessed, was viewed with regard to its use in education. It was seen that it has achieved a broad accep­tance as belonging in a school or college counselling pro­gramme. Many educators, it was observed, also believe that the encounter group can be a means of promoting understanding between generations, between students, administrators, and parents. However, a need for proper forethought, leadership, and definition of goals was advised. Others feel that the spirit of encounter would engender more freedom and creativity in teaching and learning. It was concluded that the value and effectiveness of encounter groups in society and education must, in the last analysis, be viewed in terms of the sort of individual we value and want to produce. Encounter, it was seen, encour­ages questioning, openness, honesty, and flexibility whereas society often demands obedience, reticence, stability or sometimes even deceit. The intellectual vigour, idealism, vision and enthusiasm which gave birth to the encounter move­ment in itself holds promise for man's future. However, it was felt that society's answer to this value question will determine the survival and future usefulness of the encounter group as a social institution.142 pagesAvailable to the World Wide WebThesis