Setting expectations for groups

Experiential marital enrichment: developing a model

“…Also, Corey & Corey (1987) agreed that during the pre-session was a time members may be encouraged to express their expectations of the group experience. Furthermore, Borgers and Tyndall (1982), LeCluyse (1983), and Muller and Scott (1984) concur that group members who are given pre-group preparation generally experience greater benefit than do those participants who are unprepared. Additionally, Bednar, Melnick & Kaul (1974), LeCluyse (1983), andYalom (1983), confirmed that prepared members tended to have increased faith in the group, increased more awareness of appropriate group behavior and role, and lower levers of anxiety.…”

“…Pre-group preparation generally provide participants greater benefit from the group experience than those who are unprepared (Borgers & Tyndall, 1982;LeCluyse, 1983;Muller & Scott, 1984).…”

“…Therefore, the time for the session itself needed to be lengthened to a full 120 minutes. According to couples, a pre-session assignment would be helpful in preparing them for this more uncomfortable focus on intimacy (Bednar et al, 1974;Borgers & Tyndall, 1982;LeCluyse, 1983). That is, couples needed to have an opportunity prior to the session to work on an assignment related to intimacy.…”

“…First, it was suggested that pre-training information include a descriptive vignette of the trainers and their professional experience (Borgers & Tyndall, 1982;Corey & Corey, 1987;LeCluyse, 1983;Muller & Scott, 1984). Also, the pre-session information needed to describe the focus of the first session (Bednar et al, 1974;Corey & Corey, 1987;LeCluyse, 1983, Yalom, 1983.…”

“…Inform couples of the time and place, and give clear directions to the location. Inform couples how much time each session will involve, how many sessions will be held, and any cost to the couples for the training program (Borgers, Tyndall, 1982;Corey & Corey, 1987;LeCluyse, 1983;Miller & Scott, 1984).…”