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In times of crisis, communication barriers are lowered. Groups were used for crisis intervention in the Los Angeles area with clients who were either Black or of Spanish origin, or who had incomes less than $4000 per year, or who were
in blue-collar occupations. The would-be participants were excluded if they were serious suicidal or homocidal risks, severely psychotic, or did not speak English. Pregroup interviews assessed the event that precipitated the crisis, the patient's previous method of dealing with life, his current situation, actual or anticipated losses, and other stresses. The therapist formulated the dynamics of the current crisis against the background of the patient's history to explain why he was unable to cope with the present situation. These findings were shared with the group as the patient joined it. During group participation, the therapist attempted to clarify the patient's emotions and external stresses. Good initial contact, the ability to accept people with various life styles, and to empathize with people in pain are essential for the successful outcome of this process. The pressure of the group is supportive emotionally and socially—and offers the opportunity for the expression of divergent ideas. As members identify with each other, practical problem solutions often occur, as does desensitization.