The C-Group Approach to Laboratory Learning

This article is a presentation of the method and application of the Clarification Group (C-group). The C-group is based on social-psychological and sociological knowledge and is focused on intergroup phenomena, socio-identities, stereotypy, and prejudice. In the first part of this article, the authors delineate the nature of the C-group; its philosophical and societal value bases; and the major needs and concerns met by the C-group approach (in and of itself and in comparison with other human relations approaches). The major goals of the C-group are explicated in detail. A major part of the paper is concerned with C-group application for the use of trainers and group practitioners. The application portion includes a description and analysis of the major structured activities utilized in the C-group laboratory and some general considerations concerning C-group design and application.