Identify and explain four disadvantages of group counseling

Answer 1

1) Individual responsiveness. Some people do not easily share in a group setting, and as a result their issues may never be addressed.
2) Group member personalities. The dynamics of a group are heavily influenced by members' individual personalities. The ability of leaders to handle domineering, demoralizing, or needy individuals who may tend to monopolize time will impact on the counseling environment for all group members.
3) Possibility of poor role models. Poor role models can create additional burdens for a counselor to counteract.
4) Meeting the needs of all group members. It may be difficult to organize a group with similar issues and health concerns. Meeting the needs of participants who widely differ in age, gender, ethnic background, and specific health problems can be a challenge. There is limited opportunity to tailor an intervention for individual participant.