I can choose anyone for this activity:

1. Coleadership of groups can be very helpful for both the clients and the counselors leading the group. However, there are also ethical considerations and disadvantages.Choose 4 of the 8 questions to answer clarifying your own position on coleadership in group work. Describe in detail!

If you lead groups, you will probably work with a coleader at some time. Coleader relationships can either enhance or complicate the group process and raise a mul- titude of potential ethical issues. The group can benefit from the insights and feedback of two leaders. Coleaders who complement and balance each other can provide useful modeling for members. Furthermore, coleaders can share the responsibilities and provide mutual support. Along with the advantages of coleadership, there are some disadvantages that can raise ethical concerns. Luke and Hackney (2007) found that one of the primary disadvantages involves relationship difficulties between the leaders, such as one leader having an exaggerated need for approval. Other potential drawbacks to the coleadership model include ineffective communication, com- petition between leaders, and overdependence on the coleader. Group mem- bers may attempt to triangulate the coleaders by pitting one against the other. Conflicts between the leaders can result in splitting within the group. Luke and Hackney emphasize the necessity for group leaders to attend to their own indi- vidual development, their development as a coleading team, and the develop- ment of the group they are facilitating. It is challenging for group leaders to divide their time between these multiple areas of development, yet doing so is essential for a successful group. When differences between leaders result in conflict between them, it can be a source of anxiety for both members and leaders. Conflicts that are ineffectively managed place an unfair burden on the members and can be harmful to the group process and outcome. If the leaders model healthy conflict resolution for group members, showing nondefensiveness and a willingness to challenge and be chal- lenged, this conflict can prove to be a valuable learning opportunity. It is up to the leaders to determine whether the issue is best addressed in the moment with the group members or in private between the leaders. There are pros and cons to both of these approaches. If the members witnessed the conflict, we prefer to deal with it in the group. At this point, clarify your own position on coleadership in group work: What personal characteristics would you most want in a coleader? Would you prefer working alone to coleading a group, and why? Have you been in a group where the coleaders clashed on certain issues and approached group facilitation very differently? If so, what impact did this have on your participation in the group? What ethical implications may be involved when there are overt power strug- gles and conflicts between coleaders? In what ways could you be most helpful to your coleader? What do you know about yourself that would make it difficult for your coleader to work with you? Have you been in a group where the coleaders functioned at a high level? If so, what did they do that you particularly appreciated?

2. What is the difference between an open group and a closed group? Explain how termination should be approached in each one.