National Counselor Exam (NCE)

Which of the following is an exception to the characteristics of an open group?

1. High participant engagement

2. Freedom to express feelings

3. There is good cohesion

4. Willingness to share feedback

The correct answer is: There is good cohesion

An open group is characterized by its ongoing nature, where new members can join at any time, leading to a dynamic group environment. As such, one key aspect is that cohesion can be more challenging to achieve compared to a closed group, where members have a set start and end date. In an open group, the introduction of new participants can disrupt established dynamics, making it difficult for existing members to build strong, cohesive relationships. Therefore, good cohesion is not typically a characteristic of an open group, distinguishing it as an exception among the options listed. High participant engagement, freedom to express feelings, and willingness to share feedback are all attributes that can still occur in an open group setting. Participants are often encouraged to interact and express their thoughts and feelings, with the dynamics of the group allowing for ongoing engagement and feedback, even amidst the changing membership.