Teaching group dynamics: a critical evaluation of an experiential programme

Nursing interventions based on a group approach have increased considerably in recent years. Although more common in mental health settings, group interventions are no longer exclusive to them. In this paper the authors argue that groups are now such a common feature of the experiences of all nurses that it is essential that educational programmes for nurses provide them with an opportunity to become acquainted with the ever-widening body of theory related to this subject. They identify the dissatisfaction and problems generated by the existing strategy for introducing pre-registration students to group dynamics in their college. A new course intended to address this dissatisfaction is described, including an outline of the principles which underpinned its design, and an evaluation of its implementation.