Strategic Sociometry
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12926/ve3hcq75Keywords:
SociometryAbstract
The types of processes outlined in this paper are derived from Moreno's sociometric principles and systemic theory, which are now prevalent in family therapy circles. The resultant form of group intervention, called here strategic sociometry, appears to be useful for giving information to group members about similarities, differences, and alliances. In particular, information about the function of alliances, and the parties to them, are considered especially helpful in working with "stuck" groups. It seems to introduce fresh ways of thinking-a kind of structural rather than expressive way of clearing up relationships. The theory behind the interventions is couched in terms of coevolution, difference, and shifting the frame of thought. Examples from a training group are given throughout.
References
Bach, G. R. (1954). Intensive group psychotherapy. New York: Ronald.
Bateson, G. (1972). Steps to an ecology of mind. New York: Ballantine
Bateson, G. (1982). Beyond homeostasis: Toward a concept of coherence. Family Process, 21, 21-41.
Bion, W. R. (1961). Experiences in groups. London: Tavistock.
Boris, H., Zimberg, N., & Boris, M. (1975). Fantasies in group situations. Contemporary Psychoanalysis, 11, 15-45.
Braaten, L. J. (1974). Developmental phases of encounter groups and related intensive groups. Interpersonal Development, 5, 112-129.
Hart, J. W., & Nath, R. (1979). Sociometry in business and industry: New developments in historical perspective. Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Psychodrama and Sociometry, 32, 128-149.
Kibel, H., & Stein, A. (1981). The group-as-a-whole approach: An appraisal. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 31, 409-427.
Maturana, H., & Varela, F. (1980). Autopoiesis and cognition: The realization of the living. Dordrecht, Holland: D. Reid!.
Moreno, J. L. (1953). Who shall survive? (2nd ed.). Beacon, NY: Beacon House.
Parry, A. (1984). Maturanation in Milan: Recent developments in systemic therapy. Journal of Strategic and Systemic Therapies, 3, 35-42.
Penn, P. (1982). Circular questioning. Family Process, 24, 267-280.
Sanders, C. (1985). 'Now I see the difference'-The use of visual news of difference in clinical practice. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Family Therapy, 6, 23-29.
Selvini Palazzoli, M., Boscolo, L., Cecchin, G. F., & Prata, G. (1980). Hypothesizing- circularity-neutrality: Three guidelines for the conductor of the session. Family Process, 19, 3-12.
Tomm, K. (1984). One perspective on the Milan systemic approach: Part II, Description of session format, interviewing style and interventions. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 10, 253-276.
Tuckman, B. W. (1965). Developmental sequence in small groups. Psychological Bulletin, 63, 324-399.
Whitaker, D. S., & Lieberman, M. A. (1964). Psychotherapy through the group process. New York: Atherton.
Yalom, I. (1975). The theory and practice of group psychotherapy. New York: Basic Books.
Downloads
Published
Issue
Section
License
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Psychodrama, Sociometry, and Group Psychotherapy

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
You are free to:
- Share — copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format
- The licensor cannot revoke these freedoms as long as you follow the license terms.
Under the following terms:
- Attribution — You must give appropriate credit, provide a link to the license, and indicate if changes were made. You may do so in any reasonable manner, but not in any way that suggests the licensor endorses you or your use.
- NonCommercial — You may not use the material for commercial purposes.
- NoDerivatives — If you remix, transform, or build upon the material, you may not distribute the modified material.
- No additional restrictions — You may not apply legal terms or technological measures that legally restrict others from doing anything the license permits.
Notices:
You do not have to comply with the license for elements of the material in the public domain or where your use is permitted by an applicable exception or limitation.
No warranties are given. The license may not give you all of the permissions necessary for your intended use. For example, other rights such as publicity, privacy, or moral rights may limit how you use the material.