Sociotherapy as a tool for supporting adults – a theoretical and practical perspective

Abstract

The aim of the article is to present the essence of sociotherapy and explore how its principles can be adapted for work with adult participants. The text combines a theoretical foundation – based on the work of established experts in the field – with the author’s personal reflections and practical experience in conducting sociotherapeutic groups with adults. The theoretical section outlines key definitions and concepts that form the basis of the sociotherapeutic approach. It then discusses the specific dynamics of working with adults, including relational patterns, defense mechanisms,and the need to modify traditional methods. The article emphasizes the importance of therapist attentiveness, flexibility, and sensitivity to the emotional maturity of adult group members. The final part of the article includes the author’s reflections from leading a sociotherapeutic group for adult women, showing how theory can be translated into practice in a real-life therapeutic setting. The article offers a perspective on sociotherapy as an effective tool not only for children and adolescents but also in adult group work.