[Multifamilygroups as a Psychosocial and Contextoriented Intervention for Somatic Illness and Disability]

Multifamilygroups as a Psychosocial and Contextoriented Intervention for Somatic Illness and Disability This paper provides a detailed description of a multi-family group (MFG) intervention designed for children with disabilities or chronical somatic disease and their families based on a systemic model. A mixed-methods study examines the perspectives of the participating family members regarding specific intervention components and the therapeutic process and its outcomes of this heterogeneous, closed MFG. Problem-centered interviews and questionnaires were used. Attendance of and satisfaction with the group were high. Specific intervention components such as the provided therapeutic environment and the mutual support that was facilitated by offering different opportunities for contact with families in similar situations are highlighted as particularly helpful. Increased feelings of parental togetherness and competence were reported. Results suggest that this MFG for families of children with chronic diseases or disabilities is highly feasible for these families.