The effects of a support group on student attrition due to academic failure

This article describes a research project which tested the effect of a support group on student attrition due to academic failure. The investigator hypothesized that if specific supportive behaviors were rendered in a group setting, the group members would (a) achieve an increased perception of self-competence, and (b) experience academic success. The sample for this study was selected from two consecutive classes in an upper division BSN program and was comprised of students who had achieved only minimal passing grades in the first semester nursing course. Following utilization of the support group, a significant difference in academic failure, and therefore attrition, existed between the experimental and control groups, thus supporting part of the original hypothesis. The recommendation is made that when the study is replicated, an attempt be made to determine specific factors responsible for the effects noted in this study.