Mention the assumptions underlying social group work by Douglas.
Douglas has given the basic assumptions of the group work practice:
- Group experience is essential and an integral part of human existence.
- Group bring changes in the attitude and behaviour of people.
- Group gives experiences which are monitored and selected in beneficial way.
- Group gives experience and a sense of belonging of growing together to the members.
- Group provides changes which are more paramount and can be obtained more quickly.
- Groups also helps in the removal of difficulties created by exposure to previous learning.
- Groups are used as instruments which are/economical in use, in place of scarce resources, groups can examine behaviour and the general pattern of group behaviour.
- Man is a social animal.
- Social interaction is result of group life.
- Man’s achievements can be increased and developed through group experiences.
- Capacity to solve group problems can be solved by increased group experiences.
- Group experiences changes the level of aspiration of the group members.
- Group recreational activities are beneficial for both individual and society.
- Group experiences has permanent impact on individuals.
- Group work focuses its attention on two types of activities i.e. programme and social relationships.
- Professional knowledge and skills are essential for working with the group.
- Knowledge of social sciences is essential for dealing with the group.