Group Relations Australia is a professional association for people interested in group relations and systems psychodynamics
We conduct a stimulating range of activities and events including professional practice meetings, a biennial Group Relations conference, workshops, publication of the Socioanalysis Journal, members’ days, seminars and lectures
The Evolution of Basic Assumptions In Twenty-first Century Organizations
In this article James Krantz examines the second half of the twentieth century through the lens of Bion’s concept of basic assumption life. His analysis culminates in what he describes as the re-emergence of fundamentalism and fundamentalist thinking. Krantz uses Turquet’s basic assumption one-ness to provide a compelling and contemporary explanation of society’s regression, identifying that after such a period of significant social trauma and fragmentation, this regression is about society’s search for new meaning, for connection, and also for relief from a ‘catastrophic loss of reliable, containing structures’. Structures such as environmental protection, secure employment, affordable housing and health care, economic sovereignty, reliable electoral processes and democratic representation.
Written in 2009, prior to the Covid epidemic, it provides a prescient explanation of the journey that society has been on as well as offering some important considerations for navigating a pathway out of this decline.
Fred Wright, Chair of Group Relations Australia
Click here to read the paper online or come along to the Socioanalysis Reading Group and discuss with others who seek socioanalytic understanding the potential that arises from this important article. Click here for details and booking.
About Socioanalysis
Socioanalysis is GRA’s international journal published annually and edited by Susan Long. It is a journal about groups, organisations and society from the systems psychodynamic perspective. This journal addresses the need to provide a vehicle for the publication of papers in the area of socio-analysis. Our policy is to invite papers of an international standard whilst supporting both established and new writers.
Upcoming Events & Training
Socioanalysis Reading Group (Session 2)
This reading group will be exploring Socioanalysis over the years to help us understand the challenges of the contemporary world. Over the years, Socioanalysis had published some important articles promoting […]
Find out more »Systems Psychodynamics book launch and workshop
Book Launch/Workshop – Systems Psychodynamics Trilogy – Mannie Sher & David Lawlor The authors, both consultants who work with the Tavistock Institute in London are experienced and world renowned practitioners […]
Find out more »Socioanalysis Writers Festival: Be Inspired!
Richmond, Victoria 3121 Australia
Part of the celebration of 25 years of Socioanalysis and its Editor-in-Chief Susan Long. Socioanalysis Writers Festival brings writers and readers together to be inspired by new ideas; to learn […]
Find out more »Bob Hinshelwood Seminar
A Freudian Slip? How to apply the Vienna/Zurich Dynami Mergers between organisations in any field – finance, manufacturing, retail – can evoke significant anxiety, both conscious and unconscious. Apparently, similar […]
Find out more »What is systems psychodynamics?
Systems psychodynamics originates in the field of psychology and psychiatry. This approach is a more in-depth way to gain a deeper understanding of why certain structures exist with groups and society. Examples include racism, sexism, bullying and corruption, to name a few.
The purpose of GRA is to promote the study of group dynamics and the interactions between conscious and unconscious processes in organisations, groups, and society, and their application in professional practice.
We aim to achieve this understanding through discussions, events such as guest speakers, conferences, training and seminars and the publication of articles in a journal.
Why become a member?
Becoming a member gives you access to the latest research and thinking in the field of systems psychodynamics. You also have the opportunity to build your network with other professionals who practice this approach in the field. As a member, you will receive the monthly newsletter and the annual Group Relations Australia Journal Socioanalysis, in which we encourage members to contribute to. For members, all training and events are discounted with early registration and regular updates. Members can follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook.
Engagement with like-minded group relations / OD professionals working in managerial, consulting, clinical and academic roles
Opportunities for ongoing learning about systems psychodynamics in groups / teams, organisations and society
Priority access to GRA events: biennial conference, professional enhancement activities, coaching / mentoring, social activist projects
Receive current information and research into group socioanalytic and psychodynamic approaches with a subscription to Socioanalysis included with membership