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On scapegoating in therapy groups: a social constructivist and intersubjective outlook.
Bertram D Cohen1, Victor L Schermer
1Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Joint Faculty, Rutgers University Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology, USA.
International Journal of Group Psychotherapy
|January 19, 2002
Summary
Scapegoating is understood through group social constructs and moral order. Two patterns, antagonistic and agonistic, are explored using case studies from advocacy and therapy groups.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Sociology
- Group Dynamics
Background:
- Understanding scapegoating requires examining group social constructs, individual group self, and collective moral order.
- Scapegoating dynamics are influenced by the interplay between group members and the designated scapegoat.
Observation:
- Two distinct patterns of scapegoating were identified: antagonistic and agonistic.
- Case examples included an advocacy group for socio-cultural outsiders and three therapy group settings.
Findings:
- The study illustrates how intersubjective and social constructivist perspectives illuminate the complexities of scapegoating.
- Analysis of case materials reveals the practical application of these theoretical frameworks.
Implications:
- This research offers a nuanced understanding of scapegoating mechanisms within various group contexts.
- The findings can inform interventions aimed at mitigating harmful scapegoating behaviors in social and therapeutic settings.