Toward a General Theory of Group Therapy

We attempt in this paper to organize existing group therapy theory and set a comprehensive framework for group theory and therapy technique. Based on our prior work in developing the control-mastery theory approach to individual psychotherapy, we have attempted to show how individual and group processes in the therapy group can be integrated. This integration offers an understanding of individuals' needs and plans in relation to efforts that emerge from the collective. A clinical example of the principles is offered.