Navigating Group Leadership Dilemmas in Times of Mass Trauma

This qualitative study examines the challenges faced by group leaders during mass trauma following the October 7, 2023 massacre in Israel. Twenty-five seasoned leaders who led 43 groups participated in semi-structured interviews. Employing an interpretative phenomenological approach, the analysis revealed four principal dilemmas emerging from participants’ accounts: setting boundaries versus flexibility; adhering to structure versus focusing on the “here and now”; maintaining harmony versus allowing conflict; and discussing the war versus everyday concerns. The findings highlight the significant impact of mass trauma on group dynamics and emphasize the need for flexible and sensitive leadership strategies.