Posted by alexandra_k2 on December 16, 2005, at 19:46:27
In reply to Re: Ideals » Deneb, posted by alexandra_k2 on December 16, 2005, at 19:31:09
i was trying to find this piece that he quoted out of a book a little while ago when you were talking about this (or similar) a few months back now. i've just taken the bits that seemed particularly relevant...
> Holding is the main function of the leader in the VLG. The holding function is most important in cyberspace because this space is far from being a holding environment by its basic characteristics. The leader's holding functions as an anchor to stabilize participants and reduce their anxieties so they feel safe enough to interact. Providing holding also has to do with clear boundaries....
> Contrary to what happens in face-to-face LGs, the main transference towards the leader identified in the VLG is idealization...
> The lack of cues other than textual ones on the Internet can lead to projection of aggressive feelings, but also idealization. Idealization may be enhanced by virtue of the medium... In asynchronous groups, the leader has enough time to consider responses and not act them out, even to consult a colleague, which makes the leader's interventions more optimal, so the idealization has some basis in reality.
> Unfortunately, idealization is a double-edged sword. It fosters unrealistic expectations of the group leader, and when these expectations are not met, the group becomes furious. Also, it creates an intensive counter-transference reaction of the leader. It is very easy to fall into the trap.So...
Dunno if this helps...In case you are worried about the 'intensive counter-transference reaction' bit... That only tends to be negative when the transference is negative...
;-)
poster:alexandra_k2
thread:589622
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20051215/msgs/589668.html