Service User Views of Interpersonal Connections in a Videoconferencing Group Therapy Programme for Overcontrol.
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Authors
Egan, R
O’Donnell, M
Diaz Castiella, M
Twomey, C
Issue Date
2025-12-02
Type
Article
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
Group Radical Openness is a structured group therapy for individuals who struggle with costly and harmful overcontrol. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the group transitioned to videoconferencing format. Interpersonal connection is a core element of Group Radical Openness, and it was unclear if this would be negatively affected by this transition. This online survey study investigated service users’ experiences of interpersonal connection during videoconference delivered Group Radical Openness (videoconferencing Group Radical Openness). Upon completion of videoconferencing Group Radical Openness, 33 of 52 group members (63% response rate) from six groups completed an anonymous online survey consisting of open-ended questions. Data were subjected to conventional content analysis. 68.8% of survey respondents reported that their interpersonal connections were not hindered in videoconferencing Group Radical Openness, while 28.2% respondents reported the opposite (with the remaining 3% (n = 1) of responses uncategorisable). Respondents who reported that connection was hindered stated that more time was needed to build connections, and they felt that reduced opportunities for in-person interactions and ‘small talk’ impeded connection. Various connection-building recommendations were provided, such as using icebreakers and breakout rooms, promoting good online communication etiquette, and reducing technological disruptions. Just over two thirds of survey respondents reported positive experiences of interpersonal connection while attending videoconferencing Group Radical Openness. Although the substantial nonresponse rate limits the representativeness of these findings to some extent, the results support the videoconferencing delivery option for Group Radical Openness and similar group therapy programmes. For most service users who choose the videoconferencing format, interpersonal connection is likely to be maintained, with the added advantages of remote delivery (e.g., convenience) supporting overall engagement.
Description
Citation
Egan, R., O’Donnell, M., Diaz Castiella, M. Twomey, C. (2025). Service User Views of Interpersonal Connections in a Videoconferencing Group Therapy Programme for Overcontrol. Journal of Contemp Psychotherapy. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10879-025-09703-8
Publisher
Springer Nature