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Creative development in Bion’s work group: The desire for knowledge and the pursuit of truth

Simpson, Peter; French, Robert; Sheffield, Rob

Authors

Robert French

Rob Sheffield Rob.Sheffield@uwe.ac.uk
Occasional Associate Lecturer - CBAL - BAM



Abstract

In this paper we seek to contribute to the extensive literature utilising Bion’s theory of group functioning by employing a more developed treatment of the work-group than is commonly employed. Whilst we continue to recognise the value of an understanding of basic-assumption mentality in an appreciation of group functioning, it is our contention that the focus on this alone, without comparable attention to work-group mentality, can lead to an inappropriately negative view of group process than and, indeed, that is contrary to Bion’s essential optimism about the powerful psychological structure of work-group mentality. Illustrated by reference to events over a two-month period on a management development programme we discuss how the desire for knowledge and the pursuit of truth may lead to creative development within the work-group.

Citation

Simpson, P., French, R., & Sheffield, R. (2009, July). Creative development in Bion’s work group: The desire for knowledge and the pursuit of truth. Paper presented at 25th EGOS Colloquium, ESADE Business School, Barcelona, Spain

Presentation Conference Type Conference Paper (unpublished)
Conference Name 25th EGOS Colloquium
Conference Location ESADE Business School, Barcelona, Spain
Start Date Jul 2, 2009
End Date Jul 4, 2009
Publicly Available Date Mar 28, 2024
Peer Reviewed Not Peer Reviewed
Keywords psychodynamics, Bion, work group, creativity, group dynamics, truth
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/1436129
Publisher URL http://www.egosnet.org/archive/2009_barcelona
Additional Information Title of Conference or Conference Proceedings : 25th EGOS Colloquium