The author reviews the history of the literature on inpatient group
psychotherapy. Key observations of early workers--the central role of the
group leader, the experiential benefits of the group, and the relationship
to the milieu--have not resulted in wide application of this form of
therapy because of limitations of previous conceptual models. The model
presented draws on concepts of general systems and object relations theory.
General systems theory explains how the small therapy group symbolically
reflects the dynamic process of the psychiatric unit. Object relations
theory provides a unique understanding of the central regulatory function
of the therapist and the beneficial effects of the group. The author
provides clinical illustrations of these points.Abstract Teaser