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Self-help groups: the members' perspectives
American Journal of Community Psychology
|February 1, 1980
Summary
Self-help groups offer unique support for psychological problems, serving different individuals than therapists. Findings support increased collaboration between these groups and professional care-givers.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Mental Health Studies
Background:
- Self-help groups have emerged as significant resources for individuals with psychological challenges.
- There's a lack of systematic research directly from the members' perspectives on these groups.
- Understanding the member experience is crucial for evaluating the role of self-help in mental healthcare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the characteristics of individuals participating in self-help groups.
- To identify the primary help-giving processes within these groups.
- To assess the potential for collaboration between self-help groups and professional mental health services.
Main Methods:
- Survey research was conducted.
- Eighty members from nine distinct self-help groups participated.
- Data collection focused on members' experiences and perceptions.
Main Results:
- Self-help groups cater to a distinct population compared to professional therapists.
- The predominant help-giving processes reported were supportive in nature.
- Members expressed positive views regarding potential collaboration with professional caregivers.
Conclusions:
- Self-help groups provide a valuable, distinct form of support for psychological issues.
- The supportive nature of these groups highlights their therapeutic value.
- There is a strong rationale for fostering collaboration between self-help initiatives and professional mental health systems.
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