Case Study Colleen, a psychiatric mental health RN, is leading a therapeutic group for inpatients who have a history of alcohol abuse

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Case Study

Colleen, a psychiatric mental health RN, is leading a therapeutic group for inpatients who have a history of alcohol abuse. The group is in the orientation phase, and members are still getting to know one another. Even at this early stage, however, Colleen recognizes behavior and personality traits of two members, in particular, that could pose potential problems in the group. One member, Howard, comes across as extremely negative and fairly aggressive. At times, he directly criticizes and belittles other members. When one group member discusses his wife's disapproval of his drinking, Howard replies in disgust, "I don't understand spineless guys like you who let women run your life. No wonder you can't quit drinking." When not confronting members directly, Howard makes dismissive and disparaging sounds or gestures. Other members seem offended by his behavior. Another member of the group, Fatima, has not spoken at all, except when directly asked a yes-or-no question. She does not seem unpleasant or unhappy to be in the group, but she keeps her eyes down, as though she's afraid to be "called on."

 

1. What term describes the type of group behavior Howard is demonstrating? How might Colleen address this behavior most effectively?
2. Fatima is what type of group member? How is this best addressed? Should Colleen leave Fatima alone since she is not disrupting the group or causing any trouble? Or should Colleen be more proactive with this member?
3. The members of Colleen's group are inpatients. What bearing, if any, should this have on your suggestions above for Colleen in addressing member behavior? How might this affect Colleen's overall leadership style for this group?