Document Type
Book Chapter
Publication Date
2004
Publication Title
Critical Incidents in Group Counseling
Pages
192-194
Abstract
[Introduction] Hostility in a group is usually manifested by some kind of blame game. For instance, hostility can be directed at another group member, the group leader(s), a real person in the individual's life, or an imaginary person or event ("It's all my dad's fault! If he was present when I was a kid my life would have turned out so much better"). Hostility can sometimes result in a group member becoming a scapegoat, particularly if more than one group member is focusing anger toward one particular person in the group. Regardless of the type of hostility being expressed, it is most likely masking some deeper feelings. Further, it is an indication that a group member is coming close to some important issues that are in some way threatening, and it is a convenient defense against uncovering this sensitive material. In fact, within the group setting members will often become hostile rather than leave themselves vulnerable by opening up. This is particularly the case if trust has not yet been built in the group.
Rights
© 2004 American Counseling Association.
Included with the kind written permission of the copyright holder and the author.
Original Publication Citation
Neukrug, E. (2004). Hostile member. In L. E. Tyson, R. Pérusse, & J. Whitledge (Eds.), Critical incidents in group counseling (pp. 192-194). American Counseling Association.
Repository Citation
Neukrug, Edward, "Hostile Member: "How Dare You!"" (2004). Counseling & Human Services Faculty Publications. 153.
https://digitalcommons.odu.edu/chs_pubs/153