Open Space facilitators

[FamilyFirm at aol.com]

In a message dated 3/1/99 12:14:31 AM Pacific Standard Time,
Stillinger at AOL.COM writes:

<< Joe,
 I'm just saying that I think I'm hearing that OS is about trusting the
process
 which constantly acknowledges the inherent wisdom of the group and the
 individuals. And that's very different from the whole culture of therapists
 and clinicians. >>
Thanks for your thoughtful response to the question I raised.  I find it
interesting to be in such a conservative position in the group. As I read this
discussion it appears to me that while some who think it is okay to have a
dual role may change their mind, I doubt that those who take a more
conservative position will change that position.  I think those with the more
conservative position see this issue of prohibiting dual roles as a fundmental
aspect of the responsibility. I remain convinced that (with the exception of
the ongoing scenario Harrison describes) that abdiacating the facilitator role
violates a central principle of OS that the wisdom lies in the group.

I want to reinterate that I am sure that in some or many cases the effect of
changing roles would be neutral at worst. However, informal as it is, this is
a discussion of professional standards. This is no longer Harrison and a few
others doing magical work.  It is about many people who adhere to very
differing professional codes or none at all.  I have to say that think it is
dangerous, even irresponsible to suggest that there should be no standard of
practice regarding this question.

Perhaps it would bring the question into sharper focus to ank this question.
How would you like to be personally (financially) liable for the consequenses
of everyone who indulges themselves in a dual role while facialitating an OS
for the next 10 years.
Those who are leaders in an unregulated field need to think about what they
suggest to all of those who will be influenced by their opinion.  There
already is and will continue to be a broad range of  psychological and ethical
developmental levels among those who faciltiate OS.  I fear you tread on very
dangerous ground to suggest a laissez faire approach to the question of dual
relationships, especially in a public forum.  The standards of practices level
of discussion, the potential risks of a liberal poisition on this question far
out weigh the benefits of a lower standard of practice.  And, as I said
before, those who advocate for the liberty to move in and out of a
professional role with a client seem not to understand the issue of the
influence of "experts" on group process.

By the way, there are many schools of psychology, and family systems theory
that are not based on either a medical or a deficite model. I doubt that
therpaists attracted to OS are inclined to deficite models of the human
condition, or theories of change.

Joe Paul
503-297-0750
10490 SW Eastridge, Suite 120
Portland, OR 97225
familyfirm at aol.com