A member of a support group is concerned that the group has not been ending on time and that some members have been pairing off to discuss group issues after the meetings. The concerned group member expresses these concerns during a group meeting

Question

This is an example of which maintenance function?

a. Setting standards
b. Consensus taking
c. Seeking information
d. Initiating discussion

Answer 1

ANS: A
Setting standards calls for the group to reassess or confirm implicit and explicit group norms when appropriate. Group norms refer to the behavioral rules of conduct expected of group members. Norms provide needed predictability for effective group functioning and make the group safe for its members. There are two types of group norms: (1) universal and (2) group specific. Universal norms are stated behavioral standards, which must be present in all groups for effective outcomes. Examples include confidentiality, regular attendance, and not socializing with members outside of the group. Unless group members can trust that personal information will not be shared outside the group setting (confidentiality), trust will not develop. Regular attendance at group meetings is critical to group stability and goal achievement. Personal relationships between group members outside of the group threaten the integrity of the group as the therapeutic arena for the group's work. Group-specific norms evolve from the group itself in the storming phase. They represent the shared beliefs, values, and unspoken operational rules governing group function. Examples include tolerance for latecomers, use of humor or confrontation, and talking directly to other group members rather than about them. Maintenance functions are behaviors that help the group maintain harmonious working relationships. Consensus taking checks to see whether the group has reached a conclusion, and asks the group to test a possible decision. Consensus taking is an example of a task function. Seeking information or opinion involves requesting facts from other members, asking other members for opinions, and seeking suggestions or ideas for task accomplishment. Seeking information is an example of a task function. Initiating involves identifying tasks or goals, defining the group problem, and suggesting relevant strategies for solving the problem. Initiating is an example of a task function.