Closing Phase of a Group

Why should every session and group have a closing?

The closing phase of a session or group is crucial for several reasons:

1. Reflection and Integration: It allows members to reflect on what they have learned, discuss insights, and integrate these into their lives or work.
2. Emotional Processing: It provides a structured opportunity for members to process their emotions, which can be particularly important in therapeutic or support groups.
3. Summarization: The facilitator can summarize key points, ensuring everyone is clear on what was accomplished and any next steps.
4. Transition: It helps members transition back to their daily lives or next tasks, reducing the abruptness of ending a session.
5. Feedback: Members can provide feedback on the session, which is valuable for continuous improvement.
6. Closure: It provides psychological closure, reducing the potential for unfinished business or unresolved emotions that could impact future sessions.

Think about the groups you have participated in…how did the facilitator close out the group?

Facilitators often close out groups by:

1. Summarizing: Highlighting key discussions and decisions made during the session.
2. Check-outs: Going around the group to let each member share a final thought or feeling about the session.
3. Action Items: Clarifying any tasks or responsibilities assigned to group members.
4. Positive Affirmations: Ending on a positive note, such as expressing gratitude for participation or highlighting group achievements.
5. Previewing Next Steps: Briefly discussing what will happen in the next session or the future of the group.

What was the closing phase of the 12 Angry Men group?

In “12 Angry Men,” the closing phase was marked by the final vote where all jurors unanimously agreed on a verdict of “not guilty.” This resolution brought closure to their deliberations. After reaching this consensus, the jurors began to leave the deliberation room, symbolizing the end of their intense and transformative experience. They didn’t formally process their emotions or learnings, as their primary objective was to reach a unanimous decision.

How would the closing phase of a group dealing with bereavement differ from the closing phase of a task group dedicated to organizing a bake sale?

The closing phases of these groups would differ significantly due to their purposes and emotional contexts:

1. Bereavement Group:
   • Number of Sessions: Typically has multiple sessions over weeks or months to allow members to process their grief.
   • Closing Exercises: Might include sharing memories of the deceased, reflecting on the grieving journey, and discussing coping strategies.
   • Commitments: Members might commit to continuing support outside the group or using learned coping mechanisms.
   • Handling Separation: Facilitators will address feelings of separation and ensure members feel supported as they transition out of the group.
   • Emotional Processing: High emphasis on processing emotions and ensuring members have resources for ongoing support.
2. Task Group for Bake Sale:
   • Number of Sessions: Likely has a finite number of sessions leading up to the event.
   • Closing Exercises: Reviewing the success of the bake sale, acknowledging contributions, and discussing any remaining tasks or feedback.
   • Commitments: Members might commit to specific post-event tasks or future events.
   • Handling Separation: Less emphasis on emotional processing, more on practical follow-up and closure of the project.
   • Emotional Processing: Minimal emotional processing, with focus on project outcomes and next steps.

In essence, the bereavement group closing is emotionally intensive and supportive, while the task group’s closing is practical and outcome-focused.