63rd Annual Conference

Friday, February 24

Morning Open Sessions

10:00 A.M.-1:15 P.M.

Session 307         

Demonstrating Functional Subgrouping in Small Group and Large Group: The Systems-Centered Method for Integrating Differences

Chairs:         

Carol V. Lark, Ph.D., ATR-BC, CGP, Faculty, Art Therapy Center, St. Louis, Missouri                   

Panelists:         

Yvonne M. Agazarian, Ed.D., CGP, FAGPA, Founder, Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia

Robert M. Lipgar, Ph.D., ABPP,  FAGPA, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York

The challenge of integrating differences is essential for living human systems. When differences are not integrated, groups stereotype or scapegoat differences. Functional subgrouping enables both small groups and large groups to contain, explore and integrate differences. Thus, differences are integrated into the group-as-a-whole, and the group and its members develop.

Learning Objectives:

The attendee will be able to:

1. Apply the principles of functional subgrouping.

2. Describe the process of joining on similarities and holding the differences for a different subgroup.

3. Recognize the similarities and differences in using functional subgrouping in large group as compared to small group.

 Course References:

1. Agazarian, Y. (1997). Systems-Centered Therapy in Groups. New York: Guildford.

2. Agazarian, Y. and Gantt, S. (2000). Autobiography of a Theory. London & Philadelphia: Jessica Kingsley.

3. Lipgar, R. M. & Pines, M., (Eds.).  Building on Bion: Roots, origins, and context of Bion’s contributions to theory and practice . (2003) London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers.