Group dynamics as an emotional turmoil precipitating psychotic manifestations

Data on 23 patients developing a psychosis precipitated by group sessions (mainly nontherapeutic groups in a strict sense) are presented. Nearly 70% (16 patients) fulfilled the DSM-III criteria for major affective disorder, while only 4 patients met the criteria for schizophrenia. Possible factors for the development of psychotic symptomatology during group activities and the role of group dynamics acting as stress factors precipitating functional psychoses, especially bipolar manifestations, are discussed.