JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic required the transition of face-to-face group interventions to an online setting. It is not clear whether group processes can be maintained in an online setting.

Objective:

The aim of this article therefore was to explore essential conditions for small group interventions, and whether these conditions can be met in a synchronic online setting.

Methods:

SCOPUS and Google Scholar databases were searched for relevant literature. Effect studies, meta-analyses, literature reviews and research reports relating to face-to-face small group interventions, online group interventions, and video teleconferencing group interventions in a health promotion setting were identified and screened. Essential conditions of small group interventions were analyzed and described in a narrative way. In addition, we explored if these conditions can be met online.

Results:

The literature indicated essential conditions of effective group interventions to include characteristics of the group (eg, size and group composition), group processes (eg, self-disclosure, feedback and felt trust), and outcomes of the group process (eg, empowerment, or experienced support). Generally, group intervention effects are comparable in an online setting, as compared to face-to-face groups. However, the delivery of non-verbal communication and affect regulation, as well as built-up of group cohesion and therapeutic alliance seems more challenging online, but there are strategies to overcome these. In addition, the online setting also provides opportunities such as the ability to create homogeneous groups which reinforces group identity, and independency of setting.

Conclusions:

The results suggest that online groups can be as effective as face-to-face groups, and it is possible to address some of the requirements for attaining essential group conditions, while online groups also have particular advantages over face-to-face group meetings.