Guidelines for Group Discussion

1. What we share in the group remains confidential. "What is said in the group stays in the group."
2. We encourage "I" statements, so that everyone speaks in the first person.
3. It is important that we actively listen when someone is talking and avoid having side conversations.
4. Our goal is to accept people and to avoid making judgments.
5. We try not to discuss persons who are not present.
6. We have the right to ask questions and the right to refuse to answer.
7. We especially encourage members to regularly share their strengths, skills, insights, successes (however small), and their hopes.
8. Each of us shares responsibility for making group meetings and the group work.
9. Having benefited from the help of the group, we recognize the need for volunteering our time to share in group leadership or work responsibilities outside of meetings.
10. We are a group of people with a common bond sharing our troubles, understanding, and wisdom.
11. We listen, explore options, and express our feelings. We do not prescribe, diagnose, judge, or give advice... We suggest.
12. We request speakers occasionally for information we want as a group.
13. We are here to share our own feelings and experiences. Respect and maintain the confidentiality of the group.
14. Avoid interrupting. If we do break in, return the conversation to the person who was speaking.
15. We each have the opportunity for equal air time or the right to remain silent.
16. We try not to give or take advice.

Used with permission from New Jersey & American Self-Help Group Clearinghouses