NCJ Number
99980
Journal
Journal of Offender Counseling Volume: 6 Issue: 1 Dated: (October 1985) Pages: 25-31
Date Published
1985
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article describes the use of the nominal group technique (NGT) to foster positive inmate attitudes toward self and others and to develop coping skills for use after release from prison.
Abstract
NGT consists of a structured series of problemsolving steps during which all group members can participate. The seven-step process has been used in a prerelease training program on family problems. Following an introduction to activities and the formation of four- to six-person groups, the group leader defines the task and presents the problem to be discussed. Members silently brainstorm solutions and individually list them. A recorder then lists all ideas presented by members. After all possible ideas have been exhausted, subgroup members discuss and clarify the ideas and then individually rank what they believe to be the best five solutions on separate ballots. Votes for each solution then are tallied and posted. After subgroups reassemble into one large group, members may accept the highest ranked solution, develop a modified plan of action, or use force field analysis to determine the feasibility of solutions. During force field analysis, members evaluate solutions in terms of driving and restraining forces. The NGT provides opportunity for potentially therapeutic discussion and problemsolving. Appendixes list suggested problems and provide sample NGT results. Three references are included.