The closing phase of the 12 Angry Men group

Why should every session and group have a closing?
Think about the groups you have participated in…how did the facilitator close out the group?
What was the closing phase of the 12 Angry Men group?
How would the closing phase of a group dealing with bereavement differ from the closing phase of a task group dedicated to organizing a bake sale? Think in terms of numbers of sessions, closing exercises, commitments, member handling separation, etc

Full Answer Section

     
  • Shifting Perspectives: The closing allows the audience to witness the impact of the discussions on each juror. We see how Juror #8's reasoning and persistence have swayed some jurors, leading to a change in their initial vote.
  • Emotional Release: The final scene showcases the emotional weight lifted from the jurors who initially voted guilty. They share a sense of relief and accomplishment, demonstrating the cathartic effect of reaching a verdict.
Why This Closing is Significant:
  • Closure and Resolution: The final vote provides a clear-cut ending to the jury's deliberation process. It offers a sense of closure for both the characters and the audience.
  • Impact Measurement: By seeing the shift in votes, we witness the effectiveness of open discussion and the power of evidence-based reasoning.
  • Emotional Processing: The final scene allows the jurors, and by extension, the audience, to process the emotional intensity of the trial and the weight of their decision.
Comparison to Other Groups: This closing phase in "12 Angry Men" contrasts with other types of groups:
  • Bereavement Groups: These focus on longer-term emotional support, and their closure might involve journaling prompts, sharing experiences, or providing information on ongoing support resources.
  • Task-Oriented Groups: Groups like a bake sale committee might have a shorter closing, focusing on solidifying action plans, assigning tasks, and setting deadlines.
Universal Importance of Closure: While the specifics vary based on the group's purpose and duration, every session and group benefits from a well-structured closing phase. It provides:
  • Reinforcement of Key Points: Summarizing key takeaways helps participants solidify learning and action plans.
  • Emotional Processing: Closure allows safe space to process emotions that arose during the session.
  • Sense of Completion: A defined ending promotes closure and reduces feelings of open-endedness.
By incorporating effective closures, facilitators can ensure members leave feeling empowered, equipped to take action, and emotionally supported.  

Sample Answer

     

The Closing Phase of the 12 Angry Men Jury

In the film "12 Angry Men," the closing phase serves a pivotal role in the narrative and reflects the importance of a structured conclusion in group dynamics. Here's how it unfolds:

  • Final Vote: The most significant element is the final vote on the defendant's guilt or innocence. This vote represents the culmination of their intense deliberations, heated arguments, and emotional journeys throughout the film.