Stručni rad
https://doi.org/10.24869/psihei.2025.7
REFLECTIONS ON THE LARGE GROUP: EXAMINING THE CONCEPT OF THE LARGE GROUP
Sanja Janović
; Dom zdravlja Primosko goranske županije
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* Dopisni autor.
Sažetak
This text examines Patrick de Mare’s contributions to group analysis, along with his pioneering role in the concept of large-group therapy. The technique of psychotherapy in large groups was initially met with suspicion both in psychoanalysis and in small-group psychotherapy. Once we understand that the large group is primarily a political phenomenon, we can begin to accept and comprehend the political significance of certain contributions within the group. The individual is, in a certain sense, always in “conflict” with the society, and always retains a part that can never be fully socialised. This part is in constant tension both with the society and the group, and thus also becomes a source of creativity. The transmission of psychic energy between the individual, the group, and the society is made possible through dialogue. At the same time, dialogue is a cultural form, even an artistic form, that has to be learned. Not only do individuals need to learn it, but groups themselves must learn how to develop their own dialogue.
This may well be the central conflict of human existence and the condition in which we find ourselves as a species. That vision, supported by the theoretical framework of Patrick de Mare, becomes increasingly clear and visible in large groups. It may even be the clearest vision we have yet developed, which could help guide us toward a more humane and democratic society, where everyone can have and find their voice, where we can think together, and where creativity can flourish at both the individual and group levels.
Ključne riječi
large group; therapeutic community; counterculture
Hrčak ID:
343418
URI
Datum izdavanja:
30.12.2025.
Posjeta: 330 *