The Role of Interpersonal Feedback in Group Psychotherapy

ABSTRACTInterpersonal feedback is a major communication process between patients in interactional group psychotherapy which has a substantial contribution to make toward personality and behavioral change. This special process is described in terms of seven dimensions along which it may vary (e.g., the degree to which it conveys the feelings of the sender of the message) and which ultimately determine the impact the feedback has on the intended receiver of the message. The importance of feedback as a curative factor in groups derives from its utility in labeling and reducing dysfunctional behaviors such as impression management in the ongoing group process, and from its facilitation of insight into how one's behavior affects others; the willingness to take greater responsibility for one's actions; and greater comfort in taking interpersonal risks. Techniques for the therapist to employ in order to promote the exchange of feedback are discussed and a case example is included.