Fundamentals of Group Process Observation

This edited collection covers the role of the process observer – a position that enhances the effectiveness of group functioning by observing the process, summarizing the behavior of the group so that the group can learn and, if needed, improve its functioning. There is little guidance on best practices for this role, and in most settings, process observers are forced to rely on whatever previous training they have received in group work to fulfil their role. The first of its kind, this book offers a wealth of resources for the role of group process observer organized in a systematic way. Each contributor focuses on a specific aspect of group process observation, identifying what is currently known on the topic, suggesting best practices, and providing the reader with tools, structures, and guidelines for effective process observation. Students and educators of group-work courses will find this book integral as it covers the existing gap in literature on group-process observation.

Part 1 Essentials of Process Observation 1. Introduction to Process Observation in Groups Devika Dibya Choudhuri, Christopher J. McCarthy and Jane E. Okech 2. Effective Observation: Skills of Process Observation Jane E. Okech 3. Ethical and Professional Issues In Process Observation Devika Dibya Choudhuri and Christopher J. McCarthy 4. Selecting and Using the Process Observer Christopher J. McCarthy and Devika Dibya Choudhuri Part II: Effective Process Observation 5. Processing the Process: Giving Feedback and Facilitating Process Development Rachel Vannatta 6. Group Focal Conflict Theory: A Model for Guiding Process Observation in Group Work Katy Schroeder 7. Process Observation for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Devika Dibya Choudhuri and Christopher J. McCarthy Part III: Settings for Process Observation 8. Utilizing Process Observation in Group Counseling and Group Psychotherapy Maria T. Riva 9. Process Observation in Psychoeducation Groups Theresa A. Coogan, Chris Godwin, and Sam Steen 10. Process Observation in Task Groups Theresa A. Coogan, Chris Godwin, and Sam Steen 11. Process Observation in Non-Therapeutic Settings Christine S. Bhat 12. Process Observation in Education and Clinical Training Lorraine J. Guth, Marty Jencius, and A. Michael Hutchins Part IV: Past, Present, and Future of Process Observation 13. Foundational History of Process Observation in Groups Madison Blaydes and Keshav R. Goud 14. Research on Group Process Observation Shing Yee Bay, Yiying Xiong, and Kristopher M. Goodrich 15. Technology and Process Observation Sam Steen and Priscilla Rose Prasath 16. Conclusion Christopher J. McCarthy and Devika Dibya Choudhuri

Devika Dibya Choudhuri has served as President of the Association for Specialists in Group Work and as a process observer. Her research interests include group work for diversity, equity, and inclusion, trauma-informed counselor pedagogy, ethics and supervision. Christopher J. McCarthy is a past editor of the Journal for Specialists in Group Work and a past president of the Association for Specialists in Group Work, as well as an ASGW Fellow. His research interests include group interventions stress and coping in educational contexts, and career development.