Principles, Skills and Models of Group Work Practice - IGNOU

236 Social Work Intervention with Individuals and Groups
9) In this model distinctions are not made with respect
to types and various of group since it is presumed
that this model is widely applicable.
In this model the individual and the group are significant
components. The workers role appears to be facilitative,
relying on the power and potency of mutual aid system
to take care of itself.
Developmental Model
This model has been developed by the faculty members
of Boston University under the leadership of Berustein
in 1965. Lowy is the main architect of the developmental
model. In this approach, groups are seen as having “a
degree of independence and autonomy, but the to and
fro flow between them and their members, between
them and their social settings, is crucial to their
existence, viability and achievements. The chief
characteristics of this model are:
1) It is primarily based on the dynamics of intimacy
and closeness between the members over a span of
time.
2) The degree of intimacy is taken into account for
appropriate worker interventions.
3) Conceptualization of study, diagnosis and treatment
is made at all three levels of individuals, group and
the setting.
4) This model derives knowledge from Erikson’s ego
psychology, group dynamics and conflict theory.
5) The group worker is engaged in study, diagnosis
and treatment.
6) The worker is connected with community, agency,
group and individual member.