101-01-C | Functional Subgrouping
Trainer(s): Heather Twomey, Ph.D.
and Catherine F. Garlid, BCC, ACPE
Functional subgrouping is the core method used in SCT to implement the theory statement that all living human systems survive, develop and transform by discriminating and integrating differences in the apparently similar and similarities in the apparently different. This workshop will introduce and practice the behaviors that support functional subgrouping.
Category:
Drop-in Group
Track:
Theory and Basics
Level:
Open to All Levels |
CE credits:
1.5
Format:
Didactic, experiential practice
Day(s):
Monday
, 10:35 - 12:05
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
State one goal of functional subgrouping
-
Apply two behaviors that support functional subgrouping
-
Describe one impact functional subgrouping has on the communication climate
Presentation Content
The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 15 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Functional subgrouping has been shown to increase group cohesion and lower scapegoating. Developing a functional subgroup requires a set of verbal behaviors/skills which, once learned, facilitate exploration and conflict resolution in any context. Joining with similarities includes identifying authentic resonance within oneself, matching or slightly increasing the intensity of affect, adding new bits to build the subgroup without bringing in too big a difference.
Supporting References
Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.
Gantt, S.P., & Adams, J.M. (2010). Systems-centered training for therapists: Beyond stereotyping to integrating diversities into the change process. Women & Therapy, 33(1), 101-120. doi: 10.1080/02703140903404812
O’Neill, R.M., & Constantino, M.J. (2008). Systems-centered training groups’ process and outcome: A comparison with AGPA institute groups. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 58(1), 77-102. doi: 10.1521/ijgp.2008.58.1.77
Presenters
Heather Twomey, Ph.D..
Heather B. Twomey received her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Miami University in 1997. She began training in Systems-Centered Theory (SCT) in 1996, during her internship year at Emory University. She has trained steadily with Susan Gantt, Ph.D., Director of Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute (SCTRI), since the mid-90s and became a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner in 2007. She leads and co-leads in various Systems-Centered Training contexts including conferences, workshops, and training groups. Additionally, as a SCT licensed practitioner in private practice she leads several systems-centered weekly therapy groups, in addition to conducting individual and couples therapy.
Catherine F. Garlid, BCC, ACPE.
Kitty Garlid, M. Div., BCC, has thirty-five years of clinical experience as a hospital chaplain and chaplain educator. She is one of several Association of Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE) supervisors (trainers) who have adopted SCT as their primary theory for running experiential groups. She has been involved in SCT since 2003 and a member of the SCT Licensing Group VII. The Systems-Centered News published her article entitled Lowering Anxiety to Enhance Learning in 2015.
101-02-C | Introduction to SCT Theory
Trainer(s): Yvonne Agazarian, Ed.D., CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA
Introduction to a Theory of Living Human Systems which defines a hierarchy of isomorphic systems that are self-organizing, goal-directed and self-correcting.
Category:
Drop-in Group
Track:
Theory and Basics
Level:
Open to All Levels |
CE credits:
1.5
Format:
Didactic
Day(s):
Monday
, 10:35 - 12:05
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
Describe how the theory of Living Human Systems (TLHS) introduces an innovative approach to the existing person-centered, member-centered, leader-centered and group-as-a-whole approaches currently used in the field of psychology
-
Define the major constructs of System Hierarchy and System Isomorphy
-
Describe the SCT method of Functional Subgrouping and use it to enable the discrimination and integration of differences as an alternative to ignoring or scapegoating them
Presentation Content
Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.
Supporting References
Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.
Brabender, V. (1997). Chaos and order in the psychotherapy group. In F. Masterpasha, & P. Perna (Eds.), The psychological meaning of chaos (pp. 225-253). Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
Brabender, V., & Fallon, A. (2009). Group development in practice. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
Gantt, S.P., & Hopper, E. (2008). Two perspectives on a trauma in a training group: The systems-centered approach and the theory of incohesion (part II). Group Analysis, 41(2), 123-139. doi: 10.1177/0533316408089879
Presenters
Yvonne Agazarian, Ed.D., CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA.
Yvonne M. Agazarian, Ed.D., CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA, developed the Theory of Living Human Systems; founded the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute and works as a therapist, consultant and trainer in Philadelphia. She has introduced the innovative method of goal-oriented Functional Subgrouping which requires people to build on the similarities between them rather than emphasizing their differences. She is clinical professor in the Adelphi postdoctoral group program. She gives presentations and seminars on the Systems-centered approach nationally and internationally. She was awarded the Group Psychologist of the year by the American Psychological Association in 1997 "For expanding our knowledge of the boundaries between clinical and social psychology with the investigation of living human systems and systems-centered group and individual therapy. Her considerable body of work illustrates the highest blend of creativity and learning.”
101-03-C | Explain/Explore: The Fork-in-the-Road
Trainer(s): Jeff Eiberson, Ph.D.
and Catherine F. Garlid, BCC, ACPE
Explaining is a defense that keeps us in familiar territory; we go to what we already know, telling a story that goes down a well-worn track. When exploring, we are on the edge of the unknown, discovering what we don’t already know. This workshop will introduce the fork-in-the-road as a method to increase awareness between explaining and exploring, giving a choice as to where to direct our energy. We will go to the edge of the unknown ourselves and see what is different when we don't yet know, with opportunities to link experience to literature, improvisation, the arts, and other domains of experience.
Category:
Drop-in Group
Track:
Clinical|Theory and Basics
Level:
Open to All Levels |
CE credits:
1.5
Format:
Didactic, experiential, discussion
Day(s):
Tuesday
, 10:35 - 12:05
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
Describe the fork-in-the-road as a method to vector energy
-
Apply explaining versus exploring as a fork-in-the-road
-
Practice using the fork-in-the road method
Presentation Content
Through didactic and experiential learning, this workshop will provide initial training to participants in understanding and using the systems-centered method of vectoring (specifically the fork-in-the-road intervention). The systems-centered approach has been in the field of group psychotherapy for over 20 years. Approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed journals and multiple books in the fields of psychotherapy and organizational-development have been published. The systems-centered approach has been studied and linked to successful strategies for increasing the effectiveness of leadership interventions in individual and group psychotherapy and in organisational contexts.
Supporting References
Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.
Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2005). SCT in action: Applying the systems-centered approach in organizations. Lincoln, NE: iUniverse. Reprint (2006). London, UK: Karnac Books.
Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (Eds.) (2006). Systems-centered therapy: In clinical practice with individuals, families and groups. Livermore, CA: WingSpan Press. Reprint (2011). London, UK: Karnac Books.
Presenters
Jeff Eiberson, Ph.D..
Jeff Eiberson, Ph.D. Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. As a licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania I have been in private practice since 1979 and have been training in SCT since 1994. In these contexts I work with individuals, couples, and groups and employ SCT theory and applications in my work.
Catherine F. Garlid, BCC, ACPE.
Kitty Garlid, M. Div., BCC, has thirty-five years of clinical experience as a hospital chaplain and chaplain educator. She is one of several Association of Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE) supervisors (trainers) who have adopted SCT as their primary theory for running experiential groups. She has been involved in SCT since 2003 and a member of the SCT Licensing Group VII. The Systems-Centered News published her article entitled Lowering Anxiety to Enhance Learning in 2015.
101-04-C | Seeing Systems
Trainer(s): Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., CGP, ABPP, DFAGPA, FAPA
Learning to see systems and not just people is the heart of applying systems thinking. Participants will be introduced to pictures that help translate the constructs of the theory of living human into practice.
Category:
Drop-in Group
Track:
Clinical|Organizational
Level:
Open to All Levels |
CE credits:
1.5
Format:
Presentation, discussion
Day(s):
Tuesday
, 10:35 - 12:05
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
State the connection between theory (TLHS) and practice (SCT)
-
Practice thinking systems and not just people
-
Describe and diagram the essential system variables identified in a theory of living human systems
Presentation Content
Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that function as hypotheses to test both the validity of the theory and the reliability of its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.
Supporting References
Agazarian, Y.M. (1994). The phases of development and the systems-centered group. In M. Pines, & V. Schermer (Eds.), Ring of fire: Primitive object relations and affect in group psychotherapy (pp. 36-85). London, UK: Routledge, Chapman & Hall.
Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.
Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107.
Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2003). Phases of group development: Systems-centered hypotheses and their implications for research and practice. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research and Practice, 7(3), 238-252.
Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2007). Phases of system development in organizational work groups: The systems-centered approach for intervening in context. Organisational & Social Dynamics, 7(2), 253-291.
Presenters
Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., CGP, ABPP, DFAGPA, FAPA.
Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA, is a psychologist in private practice in Atlanta and worked for Emory University School of Medicine in the Psychiatry department for 29 years where she taught and coordinated group psychotherapy training. She is the Director of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, which was recognized with the 2010 Award for Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. She trains, supervises and consults in the practice of SCT in the USA and Europe and leads ongoing training groups for therapists and consultants in Atlanta, San Francisco and Amsterdam. She has published numerous journal articles and co-authored the texts Autobiography of a Theory, SCT in Action, and Systems-Centered Therapy: Clinical Practice with Individuals, Families & Groups with Yvonne Agazarian. She co-edited the book The Interpersonal Neurobiology of Group Psychotherapy and Group Process with Bonnie Badenoch in 2013. She was awarded the 2011 Alonso Award for Excellence in Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy by the Group Psychotherapy Foundation for her work in editing (with Paul Cox) the special issue of the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy on “Neurobiology and Interpersonal Systems: Groups, Couples and Beyond.”
101-05-C | Undoing Anxiety
Trainer(s): Mike Maher, MA, PGCE
SCT identifies three sources of anxiety. These will be introduced and normalized at the same time as recognizing that anxiety is often a barrier between the individual and authentic experience. The workshop will enable people to consider the discrimination between anxiety and sitting at the edge of the unknown.
Category:
Drop-in Group
Track:
Theory and Basics
Level:
Open to All Levels |
CE credits:
1.5
Format:
Didactic, experiential
Day(s):
Wednesday
, 10:35 - 12:05
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
List the three sources of anxiety identified in SCT
-
Describe the discrimination between mind reads and negative predictions
-
Describe the discrimination between anxiety that defends against experience and anxiety at the edge of the unknown
Presentation Content
Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.
The systems-centered approach to group and organizational work has been in the field for over 20 years, presented in approximately 30 articles in peer-reviewed professional journals. Its methods incorporate techniques linked to successful strategies for improvement in group and individual psychotherapy, for example, modifying cognitive distortions, increasing group cohesion, lowering scapegoating, and reducing somatic defenses.
Supporting References
Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.
Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107. doi: 10.1177/104649649903000105
Agazarian, Y.M. (2002). A systems-centered approach to individual and group psychotherapy. In L. Vandecreek, & T. Jackson (Eds.), Innovations in clinical practice: A source book, Vol. 20 (pp. 223-240). Sarasota, FL: Professional Resource Press.
Presenters
Mike Maher, MA, PGCE.
Mike Maher, MA, PGCE, is a psychotherapist, trainer and organisational consultant. He is a Licensed SCT Practitioner and Associate Director of SCTRI and leads an ongoing SCT training group. He was Deputy Director in a Therapeutic Community and subsequently he has developed a specialism in working with staff who work with client groups – adolescents and adults - characterised by their challenging natures. He has written papers and book chapters in working with staff groups, organisational issues in mental health reform, managing self-harm behaviours and other subjects, and has presented at many national and international conferences.
101-06-C | SCT Consultation
Trainer(s): Yvonne M. Agazarian, Ed.D., CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA
Consultation offers practice in the systems-centered protocol for a ten-minute consult, based on applying the SCT principles for guiding the client into their professional role and resolving their personal roles by drawing their attention to the context of their problem.
Category:
Drop-in Group
Track:
Clinical|Organizational
Level:
Open to All Levels |
CE credits:
1.5
Format:
Didactic, experiential
Day(s):
Wednesday
, 10:35 - 12:05
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
Practice consulting within a ten-minute frame
-
Discuss the difference between vectoring the consultation to the person and vectoring it to the problems the consultee has in his or her role in a specific context
-
Employ centering as the first step in developing a mutual system between the consultant and the consultee
Presentation Content
Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.
Supporting References
Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.
Brabender, V. (1997). Chaos and order in the psychotherapy group. In F. Masterpasha, & P. Perna (Eds.), The psychological meaning of chaos (pp. 225-253). Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
Brabender, V., & Fallon, A. (2009). Group development in practice. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
Gantt, S.P., & Hopper, E. (2008). Two perspectives on a trauma in a training group: The systems-centered approach and the theory of incohesion (part II). Group Analysis, 41(2), 123-139. doi: 10.1177/0533316408089879
Presenters
Yvonne M. Agazarian, Ed.D., CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA.
Yvonne M. Agazarian, Ed.D., CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA, developed the Theory of Living Human Systems; founded the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute and works as a therapist, consultant and trainer in Philadelphia. She has introduced the innovative method of goal-oriented Functional Subgrouping which requires people to build on the similarities between them rather than emphasizing their differences. She is clinical professor in the Adelphi postdoctoral group program. She gives presentations and seminars on the Systems-centered approach nationally and internationally. She was awarded the Group Psychologist of the year by the American Psychological Association in 1997 "For expanding our knowledge of the boundaries between clinical and social psychology with the investigation of living human systems and systems-centered group and individual therapy. Her considerable body of work illustrates the highest blend of creativity and learning.”
101-07-C | The Distraction Exercise
Trainer(s): Åsa Bergquist Håål, MA
This workshop offers the opportunity to learn more about the theory behind the SCT distraction exercise. Participants will have the opportunity to practice and explore their experiences with the distraction exercise as well.
Category:
Drop-in Group
Track:
Theory and Basics|General Interest
Level:
Open to All Levels |
CE credits:
1.5
Format:
Didactic, experiential
Day(s):
Thursday
, 10:35 - 12:05
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
Describe the theoretical underpinnings of the distraction exercise
-
Practice the protocol of the distraction exercise
-
Describe how the distraction exercise contributes to building a system
Presentation Content
Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that implement and test the theoretical hypotheses in its practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.
Supporting References
Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.
Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107. doi: 10.1177/104649649903000105
Agazarian, Y.M. (2002). A systems-centered approach to individual and group psychotherapy. In L. Vandecreek, & T. Jackson (Eds.), Innovations in clinical practice: A source book, Vol. 20 (pp. 223-240). Sarasota, FL: Professional Resource Press.
Presenters
Åsa Bergquist Håål, MA.
Åsa Bergquist Håål, MA, has since 2002 worked with organizations development, designing and facilitating business transformation programs, leading workshops and training groups. She has developed a parenting program and a train the trainer program in the context of drug prevention.
She is a member of the SCT Licensing Group VII.
101-08-C | SAVI Theory
Trainer(s): Frances Carter, MSS, LSW
and Alida Zweidler-McKay, MBA
This workshop introduces the theory behind the creation of the SAVI system for analyzing verbal interaction. The SAVI grid is a map for understanding that HOW we say what we say determines how likely it is that the information in your communication will get across. With SAVI, it is assumed that it is the pattern of verbal interaction that determines the probability, not a single input or an individual's intention.
Category:
Drop-in Group
Track:
SAVI|General Interest
Level:
Open to All Levels |
CE credits:
1.5
Format:
Didactic, experiential
Day(s):
Thursday
, 10:35 - 12:05
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
Identify active verbal behaviors defining communications
-
Describe the SAVI grid as a form in which different kinds of communication behaviors can be identified
-
Give examples of verbal behaviors serving as either driving or restraining forces to the transfer of the information contained within the communication
Presentation Content
Behavioral observation systems are well established in the research and clinical fields. This particular model, System for Analyzing Verbal Interaction, developed by Yvonne Agazarian and Anita Simon, has been used for research in 4 dissertations, reported as a group process tool in 4 peer reviewed publications, and is currently used for data collection in 3 as yet unpublished ongoing studies. It has a sound theoretical base in both field theory (Kurt Lewin) and information theory (Shannon), and builds on the work of Bales and others who developed observation systems to study classroom interactions.
Supporting References
Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2000). Autobiography of a theory: Developing a theory of living human systems and its systems-centered practice. London, UK: Jessica Kingsley.
Simon A., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2000). SAVI - The system for analyzing verbal interaction. In A.P. Beck, & C.M. Lewis (Eds.), The process of group psychotherapy: Systems for analyzing change (pp. 357-380). Washington, D.C.: American Psychological Association.
Simon, A., & Agazarian, Y.M. (1967). SAVI: Sequential analysis of verbal interaction. Philadelphia, PA: Research for Better Schools.
Presenters
Frances Carter, MSS, LSW.
Frances Carter, LSW, has been working with SAVI®, and its developers – Yvonne Agazarian and Anita Simon, since 1981 in both a research and training contexts. She is currently a principal in SAVI Communications, a company that provides training, coaching, consultation and counseling using SAVI. She is one of the developers and senior trainers in the SAVI Certification Program, a program designed for professionals who would like to be able to teach SAVI in their work contexts.
Fran is also a founding member of the Systems-Centered® Training and Research Institute, a current Board Member and System Mentor. She continues to be interested in the development of training, curriculum and research and has contributed her time to these workgroups within SCT®RI. She is a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner and a senior trainer.
Alida Zweidler-McKay, MBA.
Alida Zweidler-McKay, MBA, has been a consultant and coach since 1996. She works with senior executives and middle managers to develop their leadership skills through one-on-one coaching, leadership development training programs and consulting projects. Alida is a certified SAVI trainer. She has participated in SCT training since 2002 and is working toward becoming a licensed Systems-Centered Practitioner. She has a BA from Swarthmore College and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. She lives and works in Houston, TX.
101-09-C | Force Field Development and Application
Trainer(s): Mindy Lemoine, MS
and Gayna Havens, Ph.D.
The force field, as developed by Kurt Lewin, is the SCT map for collecting information about the forces that drive systems towards their goals (driving forces) and the forces that get in the way (restraining forces). Building a force field related to a particular goal helps identify which restraining forces to reduce so the driving forces can be released. The group will use force fields to clarify goals, identify driving and restraining forces, identify solutions to problems, and make decisions in various contexts.
Category:
Drop-in Group
Track:
General Interest
Level:
Open to All Levels |
CE credits:
1.5
Format:
Didactic, experiential, practicum
Day(s):
Friday
, 10:35 - 12:05
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
Demonstrate a basic theoretical understanding of force fields through group discussion
-
Construct a force field by identifying a goal, and driving and restraining forces to that goal
-
Use the force field in problem-solving to move toward a goal
Presentation Content
Force Fields were developed by Kurt Lewin in 1947, and have been used in many social applications since then. They are an important tool used in SCT to aid in collecting data about the driving and restraining forces in human systems. Force Fields have found applications in many other fields where they are used in a similar way. Several peer-reviewed articles listed below describe and demonstrate the value and application of Force Fields to SCT and other fields.
Supporting References
Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2003). Phases of group development: Systems-centered hypotheses and their implications for research and practice. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research and Practice, 7(3), 238-252. doi: 10.1037/1089-2699.7.3.238
Dion, K.L. (2000). Group cohesion: From "field of forces" to multidimensional construct. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research, and Practice, 4(1), 7-26.
Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107. doi: 10.1177/104649649903000105
Lewin, K. (1947). Frontiers in group dynamics: II. Channels of group life social planning and action research. Human Relations, 1, 143-153.
Bozak, M.G. (2003). Using Lewin's force field analysis in implementing a nursing information system. Computers, Informatics, Nursing: Continuing Education, 21(2), 80-85.
Presenters
Mindy Lemoine, MS.
Mindy Lemoine, MS Geography, is a project manager in the Philadelphia office of the US Environmental Protection Agency. She uses SCT theory and methods to help groups in her organization develop their capacity to set and achieve goals related to watershed management and adoption of greener manufacturing practices.
Gayna Havens, Ph.D..
Gayna Havens, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist in private practice in New York City. She completed postdoctoral training both in couples and family therapy, and in substance abuse treatment. She has a particular interest in helping couples impacted by substance use. Prior to earning her doctoral degree, she practiced as a prenatal genetic counselor for 10 years, and continues to help individuals and couples through difficulties related to pregnancy.
101-10-C | Phases of System Development
Trainer(s): Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., CGP, ABPP, DFAGPA, FAPA
SCT work is always in the context of the phases of system development. Each phase of development is operationally defined as a force field of driving and restraining forces. This enables identifying phase-specific interventions that weaken the restraining forces relevant to the phase. Aligning change strategies that link to the phase of development enables releasing the driving forces of the phase.
Category:
Drop-in Group
Track:
Clinical|Organizational
Level:
Open to All Levels |
CE credits:
1.5
Format:
Presentation, discussion
Day(s):
Friday
, 10:35 - 12:05
|
Learning Objectives
Based on attending this event, I know, or am able to:
-
Explain the phases of system development defined by SCT
-
Describe at least one developmental challenge inherent in each phase
-
Describe and apply the hierarchy of defense modification weakening restraining forces relevant to the phases of system development
Presentation Content
Agazarian’s (1997) theory of living human systems, with its systems-centered approach to group practice, represents a developed and comprehensive systems theory applied to groups, individuals and couples. The theory of living human systems has defined theoretical constructs and operational definitions that function as hypotheses to test both the validity of the theory and the reliability of its practice. This theory and its methods are accepted among group practitioners as evidenced by SCTRI’s 2010 recognition for “Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy” awarded by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. SCT methods are regularly cited or included in handbooks and reviews of group psychotherapy practice. There is also significant peer-reviewed published support for the theory and its practice, including articles in the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Group Dynamics, Small Group Research, Organizational Analysis, and Group Analysis.
Supporting References
Agazarian, Y.M. (1994). The phases of development and the systems-centered group. In M. Pines, & V. Schermer (Eds.), Ring of fire: Primitive object relations and affect in group psychotherapy (pp. 36-85). London, UK: Routledge, Chapman & Hall.
Agazarian, Y.M. (1997). Systems-centered therapy for groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Re-printed in paperback (2004). London, UK: Karnac Books.
Agazarian, Y.M. (1999). Phases of development in the systems-centered group. Small Group Research, 30(1), 82-107. doi: 10.1177/104649649903000105
Agazarian, Y.M., & Gantt, S.P. (2003). Phases of group development: Systems-centered hypotheses and their implications for research and practice. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research and Practice, 7(3), 238-252. doi: 10.1037/1089-2699.7.3.238
Gantt, S.P., & Agazarian, Y.M. (2007). Phases of system development in organizational work groups: The systems-centered approach for intervening in context. Organisational & Social Dynamics, 7(2), 253-291.
Presenters
Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., CGP, ABPP, DFAGPA, FAPA.
Susan P. Gantt, Ph.D., ABPP, CGP, DFAGPA, FAPA, is a psychologist in private practice in Atlanta and worked for Emory University School of Medicine in the Psychiatry department for 29 years where she taught and coordinated group psychotherapy training. She is the Director of the Systems-Centered Training and Research Institute, which was recognized with the 2010 Award for Outstanding Contributions in Education and Training in the Field of Group Psychotherapy by the National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists. She trains, supervises and consults in the practice of SCT in the USA and Europe and leads ongoing training groups for therapists and consultants in Atlanta, San Francisco and Amsterdam. She has published numerous journal articles and co-authored the texts Autobiography of a Theory, SCT in Action, and Systems-Centered Therapy: Clinical Practice with Individuals, Families & Groups with Yvonne Agazarian. She co-edited the book The Interpersonal Neurobiology of Group Psychotherapy and Group Process with Bonnie Badenoch in 2013. She was awarded the 2011 Alonso Award for Excellence in Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy by the Group Psychotherapy Foundation for her work in editing (with Paul Cox) the special issue of the International Journal of Group Psychotherapy on “Neurobiology and Interpersonal Systems: Groups, Couples and Beyond.”