In an article published by the American Counseling Association, the author said that gender is an “unavoidable dynamic in group counseling” (Davis-Gage, 2011). The issue of gender differences has gain quite a momentum as the topic of gender equality intensifies. In counseling, however, the discussion on gender differences had only been extensively explored around the late 70’s. That was the period when researchers would like to explore how gender affects several aspects of human interaction. This paper would explore the effectiveness of group dynamics depending on the type of group based on gender. The goal of the paper is to determine whether gender-specific groups are more effective than integrated groups particularly in treating participants.
Gender Differences
Nobody would probably argue that there is a big difference between men and women. Physiology alone there is many differences to cite already. Psychologists could also say the same thing about the difference between men and women as far as behavior and personalities are concerned. However, in the field of research, while there would be some who would argue that it is better to study a gender-specific group, there are also those who would instead work with an integrated group.
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When people ask to identify how men and women are different, they can choose from a broad list of categories—biological, psychological, and behavioral (Prendergast, Messina, Hall, & Warda, 2012) . Not even considering the role of culture and age, men and women are like the two opposite ends of a spectrum. Their physical characteristics and features are very different. Their anatomical structure is different. Moreover, these are just the distinct differences. This means that there are covert qualities that cannot be readily observed by merely looking at the person. This can refer to physical strength, weaknesses and strengths, and other behavioral qualities.
Challenges of studying gender-specific group
The problem with a study involving gender-specific group is the absence of variability. The variable that includes qualities that may be exclusive or more inherent to just one gender. Thus, including gender as part of the variable would distinguish the validity of the claim that one gender is superior to the other. Furthermore, a gender-specific group is almost very predictable. Therefore, many researchers often fall into the trap of partiality. Since it is almost expected to generate a specific result, some researchers would forego with checking for reliability. Whereas, having an integrated group would force the researchers to take into consideration the actual results because any form of manipulation will almost be evident in the outcome.
Opportunities for studying gender-specific group
Specific studies only call for a gender-specific group. Like in the case of pregnancy. Only women can get pregnant. Thus, it would be pointless to include men. By concentrating on one gender only, specific results can be drawn. If the study is geared towards generativity, a gender-specific group are more advisable (Mendelberg & Karpowitz, 2016) . Concentrating on one sector or group would allow the researcher to highlight essential points that will come out of the study. The researcher’s attention does not have to be focused or concentrated on a diversified group.
Conclusion
This paper concluded that depending on the nature of the study, the effectiveness of the type of group according to gender would vary. Some studies will call for the use of integrated groups, while there are some studies which will be more productive if it is concentrated on a specific gender.
References
Davis-Gage, D. (2011, August 2). Gender and Group Leadership: Using the Research to Improve Counseling Practice. Retrieved from American Counseling Association Website: https://www.counseling.org/resources/library/vistas/2011-v-online/article_61.pdf
Mendelberg, T., & Karpowitz, C. F. (2016). Power, Gender, and Group Discussion. Advances in Political Psychology, 37 (1), 1-38.
Prendergast, M. L., Messina, N. P., Hall, E. A., & Warda, U. S. (2012). The Relative Effectiveness of Women-Only and Mixed-Gender Treatment for Substance-Abusing Women. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 40 (4), 336–348.
