According to the ACA and ASGW divisions, screening for potential group members should occur

• A. only when the group is in a hospital inpatient setting.
• B. only when the group is composed of minors.
• C. for all groups.
• D. only if the group deals with chemical dependency.

Answer: (C)

Universal screening of potential group members is essential because it ensures safety, fit, and ethical practice across any group setting. The ACA Code of Ethics and ASGW guidelines advise assessing each candidate’s readiness, goals, and potential risks before admission, so the group can achieve its purpose without harm. Screening helps determine whether the member’s issues are appropriate for a group format, whether their presence could disrupt or impede the group's process, and how best to structure the group to accommodate everyone. It also supports informed consent and helps set clear expectations, boundaries, and confidentiality considerations. Limiting screening to specific settings or populations would miss important risk factors and reduce the group’s effectiveness, which is why screening should occur for all groups.