Overall Group Purpose:

This group aims to provide a safe and supportive space for college students experiencing social anxiety disorder (SAD) to connect, learn coping mechanisms, and develop social skills in a supportive environment.

Group Work Model:

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Model: CBT is a well-established, evidence-based approach for treating anxiety disorders. It focuses on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns that contribute to anxiety and practicing behavioral skills for managing social situations effectively.

• Rationale for CBT Model: Extensive research supports CBT’s effectiveness in reducing anxiety symptoms and improving social functioning. It equips participants with practical tools they can use throughout their lives.

Ethical Considerations:

• Confidentiality: Group guidelines will emphasize confidentiality and respect for all members’ experiences.
• Informed Consent: Participants will receive a written informed consent form outlining the group’s purpose, structure, and confidentiality policies.
• Screening: A brief screening will ensure participants meet the criteria for a social anxiety support group and can benefit from the group setting.
• Inclusion: The group will be inclusive and welcoming of diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Recruitment Strategies:

• Collaboration with Campus Mental Health Services: Partner with the campus counseling center to promote the group to students seeking support for anxiety.
• Flyers and Posters: Place flyers and posters in high-traffic areas on campus, like student centers and dorms.
• Social Media Promotion: Utilize social media platforms to spread awareness about the group, targeting college student groups and mental health resources pages.

Selection Criteria:

• Homogeneous Group: This group will be limited to students with social anxiety disorder to provide a safe space for shared experiences and targeted interventions.
• Rationale: A homogeneous group fosters a sense of camaraderie and allows participants to feel comfortable discussing specific social anxiety challenges without judgment.

Group Size:

• 8-12 Participants: This manageable size allows for individual attention while fostering group interaction and support.

Open vs. Closed Membership:

• Closed Membership: The group will be closed after the initial session to ensure continuity and allow trust to develop among members.

Group Activities and Interventions:

• Psychoeducation: Provide education about social anxiety symptoms, cognitive behavioral techniques, and healthy coping mechanisms.
• Exposure Therapy: Guide participants in gradually exposing themselves to feared social situations in a safe and supportive environment.
• Social Skills Training: Practice social interaction skills like conversation starters, active listening, and assertiveness techniques through role-playing and group discussions.
• Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Integrate mindfulness exercises and relaxation techniques to manage anxiety in social situations.
• Addressing Cross-Cultural Issues: Acknowledge the potential for cultural differences in social norms and communication styles. Encourage respectful and open communication within the group. Encourage participants to share cultural perspectives but focus on developing universal social skills applicable across diverse settings.

Frequency and Duration:

• Weekly Meetings: The group will meet for one hour each week for 12 weeks.

Costs:

• Free for Students: Participation will be free for students to remove financial barriers to accessing mental health support.
• Possible Costs to Agency: There might be minimal costs associated with room rental and materials.

Evaluation Methods:

• Pre-test/Post-test Assessments: Administer standardized social anxiety measures before and after the group to gauge improvement in symptoms.
• Member Satisfaction Surveys: Collect anonymous feedback from participants to assess their satisfaction with the group experience and its effectiveness in achieving their goals.
• Attendance and Participation: Monitor attendance and participation levels as indicators of member engagement.

This proposal outlines a structured and evidence-based group intervention tailored to support college students with social anxiety. By offering a safe space, effective techniques, and a supportive community, this group can empower students to manage their anxiety and thrive in social settings.