HSCO 511 Wk 7 Group Observation Paper.

Abstract In the following paper, I will describe my observations of an online Alcoholics Anonymous group that I attended for my HSCO 511 Group Dynamics course for Liberty University. I was able to not only observe Jerry B, the facilitator, but Danielle Z who was this month’s meeting leader. Every month they offer someone with at least six months of sobriety to lead the month. I was able to see how the group dynamic evolved throughout the meetings. How the participants behaved towards one another and how they responded to the topic of the week. I also was able to see how Jerry and Danielle were able to get people to open up and feel included. The opportunity to observe this group is something that will enhance skills that were learned throughout the course. Member of the group want to be heard as well as wanting to hear others struggles and successes. The group leader needs to be able to get everyone involved so they feel like they are part of the team. They need to be respectful of other people, ensure privacy of the members is not breached and handle anything unexpected that may happen during the meetings. The lessons that were picked up from this will be valuable to the future as a counselor.