The CLAP Group

Abstract

This paper highlights the rationale and implementation of a child centred group within a medical setting. This potentially closed group is made up of preadolescent children with a cleft lip and palate facial disfigurement (CLAP). The proposed group formation is two fold as it tackles the emotional aspect of having a CLAP while also educating the group on how to handle issues of self esteem and bullying. The importance of competent planning and co-facilitation is portrayed within the paper. The potential limitations of the group are also discussed in detail. This paper also marries groupwork theory with other social work perspectives to help create a more balanced approach to the planning, formation, implementation and analysis of the group’s dynamics.