A Topography of Self-Help Groups: An Empirical Analysis

Abstract

The current managed health care system creates an environment in which social workers need to be knowledgeable about low-cost interventions. Self-help groups have the potential to be beneficial to social workers' clients. Surprisingly, little is known about the characteristics and activities of many groups and the extent to which groups receive guidance and support from professionals and established national and local organizations. Whereas many social workers are aware of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), there are thousands of other types of groups that could be helpful to their clients. This study examines the member and group characteristics, professional involvement, and local and national affiliations of 253 self-help groups. Results suggested that many groups have shared leadership, recruit group members, receive assistance from professionals, and receive guidance from national and local organizations. Results are discussed in terms of how social workers can assist and use self-help groups in the current managed health care system.

Effectiveness of a mutual support group for families of patients with schizophrenia

“…They can also learn and practise problem‐solving skills by being involved in group activities. As an empowerment‐oriented intervention, mutual support groups provide opportunities for family caregivers to develop knowledge and skills of caring for a relative with schizophrenia with peer support, establishing a harmonious family life, and engaging professionals as collaborators instead of authoritative experts (Perkins & Zimmerman 1995, Wituk et al. 2000).…”

Who helps the leaders? Difficulties experienced by cancer support group leaders

“…Leaders argued that formal provision of funding would increase group recognition and credibility amongst key stakeholders, thereby increasing the referral of new patients to the group and reducing fluctuations in group membership. The referral of new members and maintenance of adequate numbers at the regular group meeting has been previously found to best differentiate between active and disbanded self-help groups [15,16]. Strategies to encourage more trust and contact between medical staff and support groups, particularly those operating outside the formal health system, are required.…”

Investigating the long‐term effects of a psychiatric rehabilitation programme for persons with serious mental illness in the community: a follow‐up study

“…With specific reference to Hong Kong, a review of the psychiatric rehabilitation system (Yip 1996, 1997, Mak & Yip 1997 shows it lacks structured rehabilitation programmes, especially the informal community programmes based on the 'self-help group' (SHG) approach. Although empirical research of SHG in health-related group is limited, most local and overseas studies have shown to be remarkably effective in promoting the recovery and rehabilitation of persons who share common problems (Ma 1992, Humphreys & Noke 1997, Wituk et al 2000, Mok 2001, Clay 2005. Furthermore, with the exception of the gospel drug rehabilitation programmes (e.g., Ng & Shek 2001), the spiritual element is not consciously included in most of the psychiatric rehabilitation programmes.…”