Supportive Group Therapy for Parents who Chronically Neglect Their Children

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to provide a qualitative analysis of neglecting mothers’ responses to participation in an evidence-based model of supportive group therapy. Six mothers with a history of neglecting their children were invited to participate. Two social workers applied a previously evaluated model of group psychotherapy for severe personality disorder. The analysis of transcribed therapy sessions yielded salient themes as to participants’ involvement in group process. Post intervention follow-up interviews provided participants’ subjective reflections on positive changes in interpersonal encounters with their children, partners, and the child welfare system. Although providing this intensive group program is costly, follow-up interviews showed that the chronically neglecting mothers viewed their participation in the group as having been helpful.