Differences that Make a Difference: Diversity and the Process Group Leader

Traditional group therapy often does not directly address how group leaders can work with oppression and marginalization that occurs between group members. Many group psychotherapists believe that attention to social justice concerns is not within their roles as group leaders and, consequently, may not address issues of member oppression and marginalization. Conflict emerging out of cultural differences can have far-reaching consequences if not accurately identified and effectively managed by group leaders. The purpose of this article is to provide an understanding of factors that contribute to group leaders fostering a climate that facilitates an exploration of cultural issues, along with clinical examples illustrating diversity-related issues that may arise.