The benefits of mutual support groups for parents of children with disabilities

Am J Community Psychol. 2001 Feb;29(1):113-32. doi: 10.1023/A:1005253514140.

Abstract

This study examined what parents of children with disabilities and special needs found helpful about belonging to mutual support groups. Quantitative data (based on 56 parents from 6 groups) indicated that members found the groups very helpful and were very satisfied with the support they received from their groups; they also described the groups as high in cohesion, expressiveness, task orientation, and self-discovery. A grounded theory analysis of focus group data (based on 43 parents from 5 of the groups) indicated that such support was helpful in three broad domains: (1) the sociopolitical, which involved developing a sense of control and agency in the outside world; (2) the interpersonal, which involved a sense of belonging to a community; and (3) the intraindividual, which involved self change. A central theme of identity change emerged as superordinate to these three categories.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Child
  • Disabled Children*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Parents / psychology*
  • Personal Satisfaction
  • Social Support*