Transactional Analysis Vs Person Centered Groups

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Compare and contrast the role of the group leader in transactional analysis and person-centered groups. Be specific in describing how the two functions are different and any overlaps they might have. Transactional analysis is group oriented. This is a theory proposed by Eric Berne that believed “groups are more efficient at helping individuals understand their personal life scripts and individual counseling” (Gladding, pg. 321). TA groups “emphasize understanding intrapersonal and interpersonal dynamics” (Gladding, pg. 321). In a TA group learning takes place through “session interactions and homework assignments” (Gladding, pg. 322). A person centered group is based on the theory of Carl Rogers. This theory was developed in the 1960’s and it was …show more content…

348). The group leader is considered a “facilitator and really gets to be a contributing member of the group” (Gladding, pg. 348). It also focuses on “improving personal communication skills” (Gladding, pg. 348). Some limitations include that it may “be dangerous to people who need therapy or structure and are using it as a form of a psychotherapy group” (Gladding, pg. 348). There are no “rules for selecting members which can be crucial to group success” (Gladding, pg. 349). It may “lack direction and lead no-where because it lacks techniques designed to motivate members in a particular direction” (Gladding, pg. 349). One premise of a person centered group is “broadening their personal growth” (Gladding, pg. 345). People who initially participated in these groups were “healthy and not suffering from a deficit or need” (Gladding, pg. 322). There were termed “group therapy for normals” (Gladding, pg. 345). One thing that contributed to falling out of favor with people was that “group leaders were untrained and it affected that popularity with communities” (Gladding, pg.