SELF/SOCIAL MATRIX-ASHBACH GROUP VERSION INVESTIGATION OF OBJECT RELATIONS IN A TAVISTOCK CONFERENCE LARGE GROUP.

摘要

The study investigated the object-relations dynamics of a Tavistock Working Conference Large Group event. Object-relations theory studies the internalization of experience with primary figures or "love objects." As applied to the study of groups, object-relations theory considers behavior in the group to reflect the externalization of internal images, and the accompanying emotions, thoughts and fantasies. The behavior of individuals in groups is seen as an on-going process of balancing the inner and outer worlds.;The purpose of the research was: (1) to determine if the adapted instrument could be reliably applied to Large Groups, and (2) to determine object-relations profiles for the male, female and consultant sub-groups.;The Self/Social Matrix-AGV was reliably adapted. Differentiation averages for the sub-groups were (on a five point scale with "1" being the point of least Differentiation): Females = 2.96, males = 2.83, and consultants = 2.48.;Box and whisker plots were used to provide dynamic profiles of the shape and fluctuation of the object-relations for each sub-group, in each of the 30 three minute segments of the group. Seven members were interviewed after the Conference and reported their impressions of the Large Group experience. The issues mentioned were: identity concerns, fears of anger and destruction, anxieties about regression, insanity and abandonment, as well as hopes for rescue and salvation.;The present study adapted an instrument to the study of the Large Group. The adapted instrument (Self/Social Matrix-Ashbach Group Version, or Self/Social Matrix-AGV) was used by three raters to score all "acts" (every verbal statement or significant behavior) in one 90 minute Tavistock Large Group. The raters viewed video tapes of the group and rated the acts according to the protocols of the instrument.;Results reveal the consultant Differentiation average to be significantly below the assessed levels of both the male and female sub-groups.;The objective photograph/description generated by the instrument indicates greater attention should be paid to the regressive impact of the consultant role. The use of the instrument is recommended for training and teaching. Further, the instrument provides a rigorous and standarized framework with which to reliably study and assess Large Groups and other large body gatherings. (Abstract shortened with permission of author.).