A process group approach to stress reduction and personal growth in a family practice residency program.

A family practice residency experience presents both stress and the opportunity for personal growth. One approach to focusing on these issues is a process oriented group. This paper describes the evolution of such a group. Content areas that emerged in the group are discussed in terms of the variety of stresses experienced by residents, especially those engendered by changing and conflicting role expectations. Changes in group process over time are described. Outcome is discussed in terms of individual stress reduction, personal growth, improved interpersonal relationships, increased ability to comfortably interact with patients, and knowledge gained about dynamics relevant to the treatment of families as groups.