Facing the Dilemma of Forced Termination: What to Consider and Address When Removing a Member from a Group

The authors explore the group leader's considerations before removing a group member from group sessions. The authors integrate an approach that warns against a too hasty decision without considering the group-as-a-whole dynamics and the possibility of scapegoating, with the approach that looks at the group therapist's countertransference that prevents them from considering the group's best interest. The rule of thumb the authors suggest is that when a severe breach of the group agreement happens, especially continuously, and when it cannot be followed by exploration, reflection, and an agreement by the group member who violated the agreement to make an effort to avoid repeating this event, the group leader might consider removing the person from the group. The article distinguishes between removing a member in the early stages of the group and at later stages of the group's development. It also recommends exploring this issue with the group and following up with the removed member. Special attention is given to cases of racism, microaggressions, and trauma.