65th Annual Conference

8:45 A.M.-12:00 Noon & 2:15-5:30 P.M.

Chair:       

Robert A. Berley, Ph.D., CGP, Private Practice, Seattle, Washington

Bion observed that "the group is often used to achieve a sense of vitality by total submergence, or a sense of individual independence by total repudiation." The development of individuality within a matrix of social relatedness will be explored with an examination of implications for the group therapist.
experiential-demonstration-didactic-sharing of work experiences
 

Learning Objectives:

The attendee will be able to:

1. Integrate theoretical information regarding the unfolding of separation and individuation needs in early development with their model of group process.
2. Analyze multi-functional defensive strategies relating to merger and repudiation as they appear in the relational matrix of the group.
3. Select therapeutic interventions that facilitate the dialectical growth of both individuation and intimate participation among group members.
 

Course References:  

1. Cano, D. (1998). Oneness and Me-ness in the Bag? In P. Talamo, F. Gorgogno and S. Merciai (Eds.). Bion's Legacy to Groups. London: Karnac Books.
2. Cohler, B. and Stott, F. (1987) Separation, Interdependence, and Social Relations Across the Second Half of Life. In Bloom-Feshbach, J. and Bloom-Feshbach, A. (Eds.). The Psychology of Separation and Loss. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
3. Winnicott, D. (1963, 1965) From Dependence Towards Independence in the Development of the Individual. In D. Winnicott (Ed.). The Maturational Process and the Facilitating Environment. New York: International Universities Press.