Final answer:
The social worker should address the behavior of the student leading the group by confronting them in a supportive manner, while also reinforcing positive group dynamics and involving the group in discussions on leadership and collaboration to promote a democratic leadership style.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the situation described, a social worker is leading a group for students with behavioral problems. One student has become the informal group leader and is using his position to intimidate others and glorify his past crimes. The social worker should address this issue to maintain a healthy and productive group dynamic. The recommended approach would be a combination of confronting the student leader about his behavior in a way that is non-accusatory and geared towards fostering a more positive group environment while also modeling a trusting relationship by ensuring that the student feels heard. Moreover, it might be beneficial to involve the group indirectly by discussing the traits of a positive group dynamic and the group's feelings on leadership styles without singling out the student leader.
Enabling individual freedom while managing the group as a whole is crucial. Lecturing the entire group on the need for mutual respect and cooperation, as well as the roles and responsibilities each member holds towards the group's success, can help establish social control without directly pointing fingers. Applying democratic leadership styles could promote inclusiveness and build consensus. This approach educes the empowerment of the other group members and minimizes the informal leader's disruptive influence.