*disclaimer: group relations post

okay, i'm well aware that group relations theory sounds like some sort of a cult. subconscious processes? projective identification? kool-aid and new nikes? j.k. anyways, not to worry you even more, but pre-pinback i went to an open house at the william alanson white institute, which offers a certificate course in organizational dynamics. it sounds a lot like the program i'm already in, no? the major difference is its focus on psychodynamics and socio-cultural theory. one of my t.a.'s, leila, recommended i explore this option to supplement my coursework at tc, which is actually something she's doing right now. the major problem, though, is that it's a two-year program, and i'm just not at a point in my life where i can plan my wednesday evenings two years in advance.

the program sounds amazing though... more reading and mulling must be done.

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i really liked what the director of the institute had to say: "therapy helps you talk. group relations gives you something to talk about."

the thing is, group relations theory is a tool (consultants are obsessed with their toolboxes and what's in 'em)... and not necessarily something you build a career around. to be more precise, you don't usually consult on group process alone; it can be, but isn't always, part of a larger organizational consultation. however, it's extremely helpful to be aware of group dynamics, particularly in a conflict. using the concepts of boundaries, authority, role, and task can make criticism less personal and more constructive. for example, instead of saying: "i think you are a bad boss," a richer discussion would be to talk about "how you taking up authority in a certain way conflicts with my role and the tasks i need to accomplish." talking about the person-in-role, rather than the person is less of an attack, and creates a productive discussion for change.

btw, the only core class i have left to take is "fundamentals in conflict resolution," which i'm hoping i love love love. thus far, i've not been too crazy about the human resources track and lukewarm on the change management program. given my predilection for group dynamics, though, i have a strong feeling that the conflict resolution sequence is my game. *fingers crossed*

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since my entire life is lived online (clearly), i've been thinking of actually throwing my annotated bibliography that i will be working on this summer onto a wikispace. mainly, i like this idea because my mentor, john l., who lives down in dc, will have access to it on a regular basis. once i get going on that, i will post a link.

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i'm bloody doogie howser with this blog. good grief.