6 Types of Activity
Groups
Term Definition
Evaluation Group This type of group exists only
to allow the OT to observe the
patient's behavior within a
certain setting.
Task-Oriented group The group member develops
new behaviors while working
with group members to
complete a specific task.
Developmental Group Developmental Groups are
used to improve the group
interaction and there are 5
types of groups under this
category. Parallel, Project,
EgoCentric- Cooperative,
Cooperative, and Mature.
Thematic Group A Thematic Group focuses on
the development of a specific
skill or attitude in order for the
group members to be able to
complete a specific activity.
Key Element to Therapeutic
Approach/Environment
The group is designed to allow
the OT to access specific areas
of function. No changes to the
patient's behavior is made during
the evaluation.
In a Task-Oriented group, the
patient increases their self-
awareness while developing
positive interpersonal skills and
behaviors. This group has a
specific result - like a project or
service that that group completes
together.
Each of the types of groups listed
under the Developmental Groups
Category builds upon the
previous group. Each type of
group adds another level of self-
awareness for the group
participants.
This type of group is extremely
focused. All activities in the group
are designed arround being able
to complete a singular task.
Role of the Therapist Example
The OT is an observer in an An OT observes a group of
Evaluation Group. The OT autistic teens while they
documents the group member's complete an art project. The OT
behaviors and interactions in is watching to assess each
order to determine their teens level of social skills and
functional levels. their type of interaction with the
group.
The goal of the OT should be to A group of patients at an
support the group members assisted living community work
and specifically encourage together to plant a garden. The
them to change their behaviors. goal of the group is to
Discussions should be focused encourage exercise and outdoor
on feelings, thoughts, and activity. The OT spends time
behaviors that happen during discussing the project with each
group interactions. group members and reinforces
positive behaviors and
interactions.
The role of the OT decreases
with each type of group as the
members develop more
leadership and interpersonal
skills.
The OT provides direction and A group of new amputees learn
support while teaching strategic together how to get in and out of
skills and providing a safe a wheelchair.
environment.
Topical group Topical Groups focus on issues
and activities group members
face in their daily lives.
Education, skills training,
problem solving, and
expectations are all important
themes for this type of group.
Instrumental Group This type of group is
maintenance focused. All
activities are centered around
keeping the patient at the
highest level of health and
functionality.
There are two types of Topical
Groups - Anticipatory and
Concurrent. Anticipatory Topical
Groups focus on what the patient
needs to be prepared for in the
future. Concurrent Topical
Groups focus on education and
training that is immediately
helpful.
There is no need to try to change
the client's behavior during this
group. It is all about maintaining
what has already been
accomplished.
Facilitate activities that help to
promote a forward thinking
attitude. Help the group to plan
ahead, anticipate issues,
brainstorm and problem solve.
Educate the client and the
caretaker on expectations and
challenges to care.
The OT provides constant
support and encouragement
while created and safe and
structured environment.
A group is offered for patients
who are diagnosed with cancer.
The leader works to educate the
group on the resources
available to them, including
emotional, financial, spiritual
support. The group members
share experiences and help
each other cope with the
specific demands of the
diagnosis.
A group of long-time recovering
addicts may meet on a periodic
basis to maintain their sobriety
and accountability.