An inflammatory bowel disease support group for teens and their parents

In this article, the authors describe the steps in the development of a Crohn and colitis support group for teenagers age 11-18 years and their parents. The use of support groups has been described in the literature as a method of assisting families in dealing with the challenges of chronic illness. The Crohn's Disease and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) Self-Help Support Group design was modified to address the developmental needs of teens. Nine families agreed to attend six support group sessions (first hour: for education; second hour: for support). A survey at the end of the sessions indicated that the teens and their parents had more positive attitudes towards Inflammatory Bowel Disease as a result of their participation in the support group. The design for a support group for teens and families with Inflammatory Bowel Disease is a model applicable to other types of healthcare support groups.