3.3 Group Processes

restorative group processDifferent group structures can influence the behaviors and thoughts of each participant in a different and significant way. Research has shown that democratic, autocratic and laissez-faire group processes can increase or decrease hostility toward the process and the participants (Lewin, 1997). In Lewin’s studies, ten-year-old boys participated in each of the different types of groups with striking results. The boys in the autocratic groups were 40 times more hostile than the boys in the democratic groups. When autocratic leaders were extremely repressive, the participants reacted with apathy. The boys in the autocratic groups also appeared to act far more self-centered than the boys in the democratic groups.

A democratic process is also more likely to support participants by providing a greater opportunity to develop morality (Power, Higgins & Kohlberg, 1989). In contrast to the traditional autocratic and adversarial system of trial by judge (think of the legal system of crime and punishment), conferencing is based on group consensus decision making where all participants agree to an outcome.

Consensus leads to cooperation and compromise, which are vital to conflict resolution (Fisher & Ury, 1981). Conference groups are structured to enable each individual to participate equally in an attempt to deal with the offense that brought them together. Effective conferencing provides the type of group dynamic that can lead to cooperation and resolution for the offender and those affected most by the offense.

Before holding a small group conference, gather information from each of the individuals and any teachers who may have witnessed the event(s) separately. During this process, you can offer the opportunity to meet as a group. Without the acceptance of the parties, the management of the restorative process will have to be handled in a more formal setting, but acceptance is the norm as most students will want to talk about how they view what happened. When deciding who should participate, use the following questions as a guide:

  • What’s the history of this situation?
  • What harm has been done, now and in the past?
  • Who is responsible?
  • Who is accountable?
  • What are the needs of those affected?
  • Which staff might be helpful?

If the number of individuals who need to participate increases after you have answered these questions, you may need to move to a more formal process, such as a family or formal group conference.

Restorative Circles

Restorative circles are a common and effective group process and may be somewhat informal, although they tend toward the more formal approach as there is a plan and an agenda. The circle facilitator uses a script to guide interactions, as is also done in a formal conference. Communication and commitments are documented. As restorative circles are the most commonly used group process, they are explored in detail in the next lesson.

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