LMSW Practice Test

Why is an 8-10 person group size thought to optimize therapy outcomes?

1. Helps with individual therapy customization

2. Maintains an intimate and personal setting

3. Minimizes the impact of client absences

4. Reduces overall therapy costs

The correct answer is: Minimizes the impact of client absences

An 8-10 person group size is considered optimal for therapy outcomes largely because it strikes a balance between providing a supportive environment and allowing for effective interaction among participants. This group size ensures diversity in perspectives and experiences, which enhances the richness of discussions and learning. When thinking about minimizing the impact of client absences, this group size allows the remaining members to still engage in meaningful therapeutic interactions and support one another. A smaller group might struggle to maintain the same depth of engagement and connection when one or more members are absent, while a larger group could dilute the experience, making individual contributions less impactful. In a group size of 8-10, the dynamics are such that even with some absences, the therapy can continue effectively, and the overall group's cohesion can be maintained. Additionally, the group size allows for a safe and manageable environment where clients can share their experiences without feeling overwhelmed. The diverse interactions that come from having multiple members sharing their perspectives contribute to a more enriching therapeutic process, ultimately leading to better outcomes.