In Kohut's self psychology, the term "group self" refers to the collective psychological experience and identity of a group or community. Kohut used this term to describe the ways in which individuals within a group may identify with and derive a sense of self-esteem and validation from the group as a whole.
According to Kohut, the group self can provide a sense of belonging, recognition, and validation that is essential to psychological health and well-being. In this sense, the group self can be seen as an extension of the individual's own self-esteem needs, as individuals may derive a sense of self-worth and identity from their affiliation with a particular group or community.
However, Kohut also acknowledged that the group self can be a source of conflict and fragmentation, as different individuals within a group may have different needs and desires that can lead to tension and competition. In some cases, the group self may become pathological, as individuals may become overly identified with the group and lose sight of their own individual needs and desires.
Overall, the concept of the group self highlights the importance of understanding the collective psychological experience of groups and communities, and how this experience can shape individual behavior and motivation. By exploring the dynamics of the group self, we can gain insight into the complex social and psychological factors that underlie human behavior and relationships.