How to Handle Group Members That You Are Finding Problematic

If you are finding a group member to be problematic, it is important to address the issue directly with them. This can be a difficult conversation to have, but it is important to be honest and assertive.

Here are some tips for handling a problematic group member:

1. Choose the right time and place. Don’t try to have this conversation in the middle of a group session or when the person is clearly upset. Instead, choose a time and place where you can have a private conversation.
2. Be specific. Don’t just tell the person that they are being problematic. Be specific about the behaviors that you are concerned about. For example, you might say something like, “I’m concerned that you are interrupting people a lot in group.”
3. Be respectful and empathetic. Remember that everyone is different and has different experiences. Even if you are frustrated with the person, it is important to be respectful and empathetic.
4. Listen to the person’s perspective. Once you have expressed your concerns, give the person a chance to respond. Listen to their perspective and try to understand why they are behaving the way they are.
5. Work together to find a solution. Once you understand the person’s perspective, work together to find a solution that works for both of you. This might involve the person agreeing to change their behavior or you agreeing to be more understanding of their behavior.

How to Make Sure Everyone Feels Heard, Included, and Validated in a Group Session

Here are some tips for making sure everyone feels heard, included, and validated in a group session:

• Create a safe and supportive environment. This means establishing ground rules for the group and creating an atmosphere where people feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.
• Encourage everyone to participate. This can be challenging if you have a group with a lot of shy or introverted people. Try to find ways to get everyone involved, such as using go-around activities and asking open-ended questions.
• Be mindful of body language. Make eye contact with everyone in the group and listen attentively when people are speaking.
• Validate everyone’s experiences. Even if you disagree with someone’s opinion, it is important to validate their experience. This means acknowledging that their feelings are real and understandable.
• Summarize what people have said. This shows that you have been paying attention and that you value their input.

How to Handle Group Members Becoming Defensive With Each Other, or With You

If group members become defensive with each other, or with you, it is important to intervene. Here are some tips for handling this situation:

• Take a break. If the situation is escalating, it is important to take a break. This will give everyone a chance to calm down and collect their thoughts.
• Acknowledge the person’s feelings. Let the person know that you understand that they are feeling defensive.
• Help the person to see things from the other person’s perspective. Ask the person to consider how their behavior might be impacting the other person.
• Encourage the people to talk to each other directly. Once the people have calmed down, encourage them to talk to each other directly about what happened.
• Mediate the conversation if necessary. If the people are unable to talk to each other calmly, you can offer to mediate the conversation. This means helping them to communicate with each other in a constructive way.

It is important to note that you cannot always prevent group members from becoming defensive. However, by following these tips, you can help to minimize conflict and create a more positive group environment.

Here are some additional tips for handling group members that you are finding problematic:

• Document the person’s behavior. If the person is repeatedly disruptive or problematic, it is important to document their behavior. This will help you to build a case if you need to intervene further.
• Talk to a supervisor or colleague. If you are struggling to handle a problematic group member, talk to a supervisor or colleague. They may be able to offer advice or support.
• Don’t take it personally. It is important to remember that the person’s behavior is not a reflection of you. Try not to take it personally if the person is critical or dismissive.

It is also important to remember that you are not responsible for the behavior of others. You can only control your own behavior. If you are doing your best to create a positive group environment, then you are doing your job.