Small Group - Chapter 6

10/11/10

2. Do you think that you are cognitively complex or simple? What is it like for you to work with others who differ from you on this variable?

I consider myself to be cognitively complex. This usually works to my advantage, but when I have to work with someone who is significantly cognitively simple it can be pretty frustrating. This is because I often have to be very intentional about how I address the person, and the language that I use. I often find myself having to substitute very simple words for words that I use on a regular basis. I also have to regularly rephrase sentences altogether so that other people can understand. Another problem I find in working with people who are cognitively simple is explaining concepts that may seem simple to me, but are very complex to them. In general, I am not completely opposed to working with people who are cognitively simple, it is just really frustrating!

5. How do you handle a member who is withdrawn and quiet in a group? What are you feelings about such a person?

Because I have a tendency to be quiet and withdrawn in groups myself, I find it easier to handle other members of a group who are the same way. If I am leading a group and have one or more members who are very withdrawn and quiet, I try to make a very deliberate point of including them. This can be done by encouraging everybody to give input by going around the circle. I also try to help the group become more comfortable with each other by playing simple games to help members learn about each other. Often a person who is quiet or withdrawn will be more active in the group once they feel comfortable with the other members. If this does not help, however, I continue to make deliberate actions to specifically include the withdrawn members.