Groups and Gender: The Effects of a Masculine Gender Deficit

Abstract

Should analysts consider gender distribution when forming a group, or should they assume that the sex of the participants and therapist will not significantly affect group process? This question has received little attention in the psychoanalytic literature despite the fact that it provokes considerable thought and discussion among psychotherapists. This article explores the effects of a specific gender distribution in an analytic group: one male analyst conducting a group of women. This gender configuration complicates the working-through of psychic bisexuality. It can set the stage for genital and especially pre-genital fantasies deleterious to the process by a phallic regression of the group towards a struggle for control and power. Unless an all female or all male group is favoured, an even gender distribution seems necessary to allow for the free expression of masculine and feminine, maternal and paternal, identifications.

Core Themes in a Support Group for Spouses of Breast Cancer Patients

“…Many men doubt that they might benefit from such groups (Addis & Mahalik, 2003;Blazina & Marks, 2001;McCarthy, Holliday, & Ebony, 2004;O'Brien, Hunt, & Hart, 2005). Moreover, even though therapy and support groups geared to men have proven to be effective, it is difficult to convince men to take part in them and to see the therapeutic benefits (Currat, 2006;Stein, 1983;Sternbach, 2001). Beyond gender-related reasons, men whose spouses are inflicted by an illness that requires much attention, might find it difficult to take care of themselves, as they tend to focus all of their energy and care entirely on their sick spouse.…”