The introduction of small group work to an adolescent unit

Some principles on which small group work with adolescents can be based are described, and an account is given of its introduction to a unit where the high number of transient staff in training could militate against the successful operation of group work. Problems presented by two important aspects of the unit's policies—emphasis on multidisciplinary work, and the wide range of diagnoses among the boys and girls admitted to the unit—are discussed. It is concluded that small group work can be introduced and maintained in such settings and that it enables staff to enahance their skills in working together and with adolescents. Whilst we have as yet no positive research data proving its efficacy, our impression nevertheless is that patients benefit sufficiently to justify continuing with small group work. Attempts are planned to define the various aims of group work more closely and to devise means of assessing results.