Which action is NOT recommended for a leader when a member drops out, according to Best Practice Guidelines?

• A. Discuss reasons for premature closure with other group members
• B. Say goodbye to the remaining group members
• C. Use pressure to have the member remain in group
• D. Discuss the benefits and liabilities of staying in group

Answer: (C)

The key idea here is supporting voluntary, respectful closure when a member leaves a group. Pressuring someone to stay runs counter to ethical practice because it undermines autonomy and can create a coercive, uncomfortable climate. It can damage trust, increase resistance, and harm the member’s well-being as well as the group’s dynamics.

Best practice is to focus on the member’s needs and informed decision-making: have a supportive conversation about why the member is leaving, explore the potential benefits and downsides of staying vs. leaving, and plan for a clear, respectful closure that acknowledges the member’s choice. Saying goodbye to the group helps everyone process the transition and maintain positive boundaries and confidentiality.

So, the action that is not recommended is using pressure to have the member remain in the group.