Stages of Group Work in the Social Goals Model
Stages of Group Work in the Social Goals Model

Stages of Group Work in the Social Goals Model

The Social Goals Model follows a structured approach to group work, moving through different stages to ensure effective collaboration, empowerment, and social change. These stages guide the group’s progress from formation to action and long-term sustainability.

Formation Stage (Engagement and Planning)

The Formation Stage is the initial phase of group work in the Social Goals Model, where the foundation for collective action is established. At this stage, individuals come together based on shared concerns, interests, or social justice issues, forming a group with a common purpose. The role of the social worker or facilitator is crucial in setting a positive, inclusive, and participatory tone for the group. This involves fostering trust, clarifying the group’s objectives, and creating a safe space where all members feel valued and heard. Group norms and expectations are established collaboratively to promote democratic participation, respect for diverse perspectives, and mutual support among members. Ensuring inclusivity and equal representation is essential in building a strong foundation for the group’s future work.

During the engagement process, the social worker helps the group identify key social issues they wish to address, encouraging critical thinking and reflection on the systemic nature of these problems. Members begin to explore their individual and collective strengths, skills, and resources, laying the groundwork for effective teamwork. Additionally, this stage involves logistical planning, such as determining meeting schedules, communication methods, and initial action steps. The social worker acts as a facilitator rather than a leader, guiding discussions and empowering group members to take ownership of their goals. By the end of this stage, the group should have a clear sense of purpose, cohesion, and readiness to move forward into deeper assessment and action planning.

 

Assessment Stage (Understanding Needs and Strengths)

The Assessment Stage is a critical phase in the Social Goals Model, where the group collectively explores and analyzes the social issues they aim to address. This stage involves identifying the root causes, systemic barriers, and broader social structures contributing to the problem. Group members share their lived experiences, perspectives, and knowledge, fostering a deeper understanding of how these issues affect different communities. The social worker facilitates discussions that encourage critical thinking, helping members recognize the interconnectedness of personal struggles and societal inequalities. This stage also includes gathering data, conducting research, and engaging with external stakeholders to ensure that the group’s efforts are informed and evidence-based.

In addition to understanding the challenges, this stage focuses on recognizing and mobilizing the strengths of the group. Members assess their individual and collective skills, resources, and networks that can be leveraged for social change. A strengths-based approach is used to empower participants, highlighting their capacities rather than their limitations. The social worker plays a supportive role by helping the group identify leadership potential, communication skills, and strategic planning abilities among members. This process builds confidence and motivation, reinforcing the idea that the group is capable of making meaningful contributions to their cause. By the end of this stage, the group has a well-rounded understanding of both the challenges they face and the assets they possess, preparing them to develop an effective action plan in the next phase.

 

Action Planning Stage (Developing Strategies for Change)

The Action Planning Stage in the Social Goals Model is where the group transitions from understanding the issue to designing concrete strategies for addressing it. Building on the insights gained during the assessment phase, group members work collaboratively to set clear, achievable goals and outline a structured plan for social action. The process involves brainstorming possible interventions, identifying priorities, and determining the most effective approaches to creating change. Strategies may include advocacy campaigns, policy recommendations, community education, direct service projects, or mobilization efforts such as protests and petitions. The social worker plays a facilitative role, ensuring that all voices are heard, guiding discussions on feasibility, and helping the group align their strategies with their overall mission and resources.

This stage also involves assigning roles and responsibilities based on members’ strengths, interests, and expertise. Effective delegation ensures that each member has a meaningful role, fostering ownership and accountability within the group. Additionally, the group anticipates potential challenges and develops contingency plans to navigate obstacles that may arise during implementation. Timelines, resource allocation, and partnerships with external organizations or stakeholders are also established to strengthen the group’s efforts. By the end of this stage, the group has a well-structured action plan that outlines specific steps, expected outcomes, and mechanisms for monitoring progress, setting the foundation for collective action and real-world impact.

 

Implementation Stage (Taking Collective Action)

The Implementation Stage is where the group puts its action plan into motion, actively working toward social change through collective efforts. This stage involves executing the strategies developed in the Action Planning Stage, whether through advocacy campaigns, policy engagement, community outreach, direct interventions, or other forms of organized activism. Group members take on their assigned roles and responsibilities, working collaboratively to address the identified social issues. The social worker continues to play a supportive role, offering guidance, problem-solving assistance, and ensuring that the group remains focused and motivated. Flexibility is key during implementation, as unexpected challenges may arise, requiring the group to adapt their strategies while maintaining their core objectives.

Beyond executing planned activities, this stage also fosters engagement with the broader community, policymakers, and other stakeholders to amplify the group’s impact. Communication and collaboration with external organizations, media, and allies help to enhance the effectiveness of the initiative. Group members continuously assess their progress, reflecting on what is working well and what may need adjustment. Through active participation and real-world action, members develop leadership skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of collective empowerment. By the end of this stage, the group should have made tangible progress toward their goals, paving the way for evaluation and long-term sustainability efforts in the next phase.

 

Evaluation Stage (Assessing Impact and Learning)

The Evaluation Stage in the Social Goals Model focuses on assessing the effectiveness of the group’s actions, measuring outcomes, and reflecting on lessons learned. This stage is essential in determining whether the strategies implemented have successfully addressed the identified social issues and if the intended goals were achieved. The group gathers feedback from members, community stakeholders, and those impacted by the intervention to understand the strengths and limitations of their efforts. Both qualitative and quantitative methods—such as surveys, testimonials, performance indicators, and participatory reflections—are used to analyze progress. The social worker facilitates discussions that encourage members to critically evaluate their contributions, celebrate achievements, and recognize areas for improvement.

Beyond assessing impact, this stage also fosters collective learning and future planning. Group members reflect on the skills and knowledge they have gained, identifying how their experiences can be applied to ongoing or future initiatives. If gaps or challenges are identified, the group explores ways to refine their approach or modify strategies for greater effectiveness. Additionally, the evaluation phase strengthens accountability, ensuring that the group remains committed to its mission. By the end of this stage, the group has a clear understanding of what worked, what didn’t, and how to sustain or expand their efforts, laying the groundwork for the final Sustainability and Termination Stage.

 

Sustainability and Termination Stage (Ensuring Long-Term Impact)

The Sustainability and Termination Stage in the Social Goals Model focuses on ensuring that the group’s efforts lead to long-lasting social change while preparing for the eventual conclusion of formal group activities. Sustainability involves developing strategies to maintain the progress achieved, such as institutionalizing changes, securing ongoing resources, or building partnerships with community organizations. Group members may establish leadership succession plans, train new advocates, or integrate their work into existing social movements to ensure continuity. The social worker plays a key role in guiding discussions on how to preserve the group’s impact, whether through continued advocacy, policy engagement, or creating self-sustaining community initiatives.

As the group approaches termination, members reflect on their journey, recognizing their personal and collective growth. This stage provides an opportunity to celebrate accomplishments, acknowledge challenges overcome, and reinforce the empowerment gained throughout the process. While formal meetings may conclude, the relationships and networks built often persist, enabling members to continue their activism in different capacities. The social worker ensures a positive transition by helping members identify ways to stay engaged in social action beyond the group. By the end of this stage, the group has not only contributed to meaningful social change but has also fostered a lasting commitment to community empowerment and advocacy.

MODELS OF SOCIAL GROUP WORK

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