Like a Cleansing Fire: Exploring the Impact of Short-Term Support Groups for Women with Breast Cancer

Abstract

A follow-up questionnaire was administered in 1995 to 26 of 34 women (8 had died) who had attended six psychoeducational support groups for women with breast cancer held between 1990 and 1993. The questionnaire had a response rate of 46% and revealed long-term effects on the participants' adjustment and coping abilities. Results are discussed qualitatively regarding the informational and psy-chosocial needs of patients with breast cancer. Benefits of the group for these women included acquisition of new information, increased long-term coping skills, spiritual and emotional support, and assistance with psychosocial issues (e.g., self-concept, sharing, emotional expression, family/relationships). Also discussed are issues affecting the groups' success, including patient engagement, structural issues (group topics and size, heterogeneity of membership), the diverse learning styles, patients' needs and levels of literacy, the facilitator's role, and the role of talk and trust in support groups.