Working Collectively

Women's Self-Help Network for Change

Publisher:  Women's Self-Help Network, Campbell River
Year Published:  1985   First Published:  1984
Pages:  50pp   ISBN:  0-919537-17-0
Book Type:  Handbooks/Manuals
Library of Congress Number:  HQ1885.W67 1984   Dewey:  306.344
Resource Type:  Book
Cx Number:  CX3218



Abstract:  "Working collectively," according to the Women's Self-help Network, "is difficult for people used to managing in a hierarchical, individualistic society." Their bookd WORKING COLLECTIVELY is a handbook for people wishing to form collectives, or established collectives seeking solutions to problems such as power imbalances, conflict meditation, and setting priorities.

WORKING COLLECTIVELY includes a detailed procedure for consensus decisoin-making, a suggested agenda (to help solve the "endless meeting" syndrome) and a "burnout self exam" for collective members.

One striking tactic proposed in the book is the use of "paranoid fantasy as a communication tool. We argreed that when someone feels paranoid, that is that something is going on which is making her feel uneasy or afraid, there is indeed something going on." The Women's Self-Help Network suggests discussing the paranoid fantasies (usually about the feelings of ohter collective members) with the appropriate people in an effort to resolve the problem.

Subject Headings

• Collectives
• Conflict
• Conflict Resolution
• Consensus Decision Making
• Decision-Making
• Group Facilitation
• Group Meetings
• Meetings
• Self-Help Groups
• Women's Movement