encounter group

Noun

 * 1)  A gathering of people who intentionally meet and interact so that each member may improve his or her ability both to express feelings and to react with appropriate sensitivity to the feelings of others.
 * 2) * 1969 April 30, "Loosening the Springs at Boca Ciega High" (editorial), St. Petersburg Times, p. 16A (retrieved 20 Feb 2013) :
 * The encounter group would meet either before or after regular school hours. . . . The group would thrash out the problem of racial hostility, and any relevant problems.
 * The encounter group would meet either before or after regular school hours. . . . The group would thrash out the problem of racial hostility, and any relevant problems.

Synonyms

 * / training group