Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

In a brief group therapy session, what is the ideal composition of the group?

1. The sexual orientation of the group is not important

2. The group is heterogeneous

3. The group is both homogeneous and heterogeneous

4. The group is homogeneous

The correct answer is: The group is homogeneous

In a brief group therapy session, having a homogeneous group is often considered ideal, particularly when addressing specific issues or concerns that share a common thread among members. A homogeneous group means that participants share similar characteristics, whether that be in terms of experiences, backgrounds, or specific challenges they are facing. This similarity can foster a sense of safety and understanding, allowing group members to relate to one another more easily and engage in deeper conversations about their shared experiences. In the context of therapy, when members have similar experiences or backgrounds, they may feel more comfortable sharing personal thoughts and emotions, as they believe others can truly empathize with their situation. This can lead to more effective support, cohesion, and ultimately, therapeutic progress. While a diverse (heterogeneous) group can have benefits for broader perspectives, in a brief session where time and focus are limited, the depth of connection and mutual understanding among similar participants can enhance the effectiveness of the therapeutic process.