Group Description & Context

The group I observed was a young adult men’s church small group that meets weekly for fellowship, discussion, and spiritual growth. The main purpose of the group is to provide a supportive space for young adult men to discuss faith-based topics, personal challenges, and accountability. This group functions as a treatment group, as it focuses on emotional support, personal growth, and behavioral reflection rather than completing a specific task. The population consists of young adult men ranging from 18-29. The session observed took place on January 28^th at Woodstock Baptist Church.

Role in the Group

My role in this group was a participant/member as I am not in a leadership or facilitation position. I engage in discussions and group activities with other members in the group. 

Familiarity With Group Focus and Agenda

I am familiar with the overall focus and structure of the group since I attend regularly. The sessions include an opening prayer, a brief reading of a selected verse (usually based on the verse the pastor preached the day before) followed by group discussion and personal sharing. Although the specific discussion questions vary week to week, the general agenda and purpose remain consistent.

Preparation for the Group Session

For preparation, I usually bring my phone charged with the Notes and Bible app updated and ready to read/follow the verse and take notes. Other than physical preparation, I mentally prepare with openness is mind, respect for others’ opinions and struggles, and confidentiality. Lastly, I prepare to share openly with the group and bestow wisdom as deemed appropriate to the younger guys. 

Reflection on Group Experience, Dynamics, and Use of Self

During the session, the group maintained strong cohesion and mutual respect. Members were attentive, supportive, and willing to be vulnerable, which created a safe and trusting environment. Some members were more vocal, while others participated primarily through listening, which shows different comfort levels and communication styles within the group. As a participant, I practiced use-of-self by being authentic, empathetic, and self-aware in my contributions, trying to find a balance of between being too quiet/closed off and giving advice and being too opinionated. I was intentional about balancing sharing my own opinions/experiences with allowing space for others, which I think helped maintain healthy group dynamics.

Clinical Implications and Professional Development

This experience helped me understand the importance of safety, trust, and consistency in group work. Being able to observe how faith-based values supported openness and accountability highlighted how shared purpose can strengthen the group’s identity and cohesion. Clinically, this experience will inform my future work with groups by emphasizing the value of clear norms, respectful listening, and facilitator restraint—even in participant roles. It also increased my awareness of how my presence, tone, and level of openness can influence the groups engagement. This observation will help guide my professional development as I continue to work with diverse groups by encouraging intentional use-of-self and sensitivity to group dynamics.