Individual discussions
Facilitators should not have long conversations with individual group members, as this may be viewed as a waste of time for the rest
of the group. It is also important to steer away from arguments with members of the group. Facilitators should not try to force
members to accept their views, and should always stay open minded to other people's opinions.
Avoiding Interruptions
A facilitator who interrupts a group discussion too often can prevent the proper development of group unity, and can also prevent
learning. Continual interruptions can also annoy the group and have a negative effect on the facilitator's relationship with the group.
Clear instructions
Facilitators who are not clear when giving instructions can cause frustration among the group and can also waste time. It is extremely
difficult for members to participate if they are unsure of what to do.
Effective time management
Time management is extremely important when it comes to facilitation of support groups, because it is the facilitator's job to make
sure that everything that needs to be discussed is discussed, and this needs to be done without rushing the group or neglecting any
issues that need to be dealt with. It is important that the facilitator must plan the sessions so that everything that needs to be discussed
is covered, and that there is still time for open discussion afterwards, as well as sufficient time for closure of the session.
Attention to all
Often when time is running out, a facilitator may only give a part of the group time for feedback and experiences. This is unfair to
the rest of the group, and should be avoided.
Reflection
Members of the group must be given time to reflect (think) after each discussion and activity. Reflection is extremely important for
the group, as it gives members a chance to take everything in. If a facilitator jumps from one discussion to another, or from activity
to activity without making time for reflection, the members of the group will leave feeling exhausted and confused.
Privacy
Facilitators should not pressure members of the group to share private information or to share their stories if they are not ready to
do so. It can be extremely difficult to discuss private matters in front of a group of people who are not friends or family. Therefore, it
is important that the individual feels comfortable in the group before opening up, and this process should not be rushed. This process
may only take a couple of minutes for some members, while others may need a few sessions before they feel they are ready to open
up to the group.
Learning from the group
A facilitator should always keep process notes of each session, and use these notes to reflect on the group's progress, and to learn
from the group. The facilitator should also reflect on the process of facilitation, the group dynamics and feedback.
HIV
Intervention Programme for the ENHANCEMENT OF CHILDREN'S RESILIENCE
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