Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Practice

During which stage is the focus on trust and cohesion among group members most critical?

1. Initial stage

2. Transition stage

3. Working stage

4. Final stage

The correct answer is: Working stage

The working stage is where trust and cohesion among group members are most critical. During this stage, members are expected to engage in deeper levels of sharing, collaboration, and interaction. Trust that has been built in the earlier stages allows for more openness and vulnerability, facilitating honest communication and teamwork. At this point, the group has typically developed a sense of belonging, which encourages members to confront issues, provide constructive feedback, and support one another's growth. Cohesion enables the group to navigate challenges effectively, and it fosters an environment where members can engage in problem-solving and decision-making collaboratively. While the initial stage focuses on forming relationships and establishing norms, and the transition stage deals with addressing differences and potential conflicts, the working stage is where the actual task-oriented work occurs, and maintaining trust and cohesion is vital for the group’s success. The final stage involves closure and reflection, which, while important, does not emphasize trust among members in the same way.