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Slavson distinguishes between 'activity group therapy' and 'interview group therapy'. In the former, the group engages in common activities such as work in arts and crafts. These activities 'are the sole tool of treatment'. Successful achievement and acceptance within the group change the patient's attitude toward himself and strengthen his ego. Activity group therapy is 'predominantly ego therapy' in contrast to interview group treatment which 'deals more with the patient's libidinal fixations and difficulties'. The interview group is united not by activities but by discussion of problems. Interpretations are made both by the therapist and by the members of the group.
In both groups, the basic transference must be positive or the individual soon leaves the group. In the interview groups, there is more opportunity for expression and discussion of negative feelings but admittedly the treatment can not reach very deep levels of the unconscious. The therapist allies himself with the instinctive drives against the superego while the reactions and comments of the group supply an important reality-testing element and provide a pattern for group identifications. Slavson repeatedly points out the limitations and dangers of group therapy and makes it apparent that careful selection of patients and judicious group leadership are indispensable for success.