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.
