Termination in inpatient groups

This article provides the therapist with a three-factor framework for understanding and constructively responding to members' termination in the inpatient group. The first factor is the context in which the inpatient group takes place. It will be argued that how the broader system defines and treats termination affects the group process at the time of termination. The second factor is the therapist's countertransference. Three especially common reactions (disappointment, abandonment anxiety, and powerlessness) will be described. The third factor is the characteristic need of inpatients at termination time. Each factor is described in terms of its potential impact on the termination process. Techniques and suggestions are offered that aim to mitigate the destructive forces of each factor and to enhance the therapeutic value of the termination event for the patient.